PHUKET — A group of beach masseuses from Karon Subdistrict has petitioned the Phuket governor on Friday to reconsider restrictions on the use of public beach areas after the local municipality barred them from placing massage equipment on the sand.
The petition was submitted during a meeting on Oct. 31, chaired by Deputy Governor Somawit Supanpai and attended by members of the Karon Beach Massage Community Enterprise. The group said they have been struggling to earn a living since the Karon Municipality banned temporary massage setups along the beach.
Somawit said the province acknowledged the grievances and would take 15 days to review the matter. A working group made up of district, municipal, and service center officials will be formed to assess the impact and propose remedies.
He said current rules allow temporary use of beach areas but prohibit permanent structures, and all massage equipment must be removed after working hours. The province also plans to discuss possible relief measures with the municipality.
Monchai Saelao, director of the Damrongtham Center, said any occupation of public space must comply with the law and administrative procedures. Local authorities are required to set clear guidelines for such activities, he said, warning that failure to enforce them could lead to legal consequences under Section 157 of the Criminal Code.
Monchai added that public spaces belong to everyone and must remain accessible. He suggested allowing the masseuses to set up temporary tents and use portable equipment, provided no permanent fixtures are installed.
Provincial officials said the issue followed complaints about the unauthorized use of public land along Karon Beach. The governor’s office has requested 15 days to consult with relevant agencies before making a final decision.
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