Khajorn Weerachai (left), from
the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, and Deputy Governor Adisak Thepass preside
over the meeting.
Phasakorn Channgam
Although they lack the money to carry out their plans, Pattaya officials
hope to expand two Jomtien Beach tourist-information centers as part of its plan
to integrated police, Marine Department and city hall administrators to respond
to water-related accidents.
Chonburi Deputy Gov. Adisak Thepass chaired the May 31 meeting at the Sigma
Resort to follow up the May 27 decision to build a new marine-assistance center
at the site of the city’s former pier.
Officials estimated that center would cost 226,000 baht to build but, at the
latest meeting, Pattaya Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh it will now cost around
500,000 baht to expand the existing Tourist Information Center to handle
marine-safety duties and personnel.
Ekasingh said the center would help prepare equipment in
advance of any marine accidents, respond quickly when an accident occurs and
provide assistance and counseling to victims after an accident.
The deputy mayor said the city also has decided to expand its marine-protection
efforts by also expanding existing tourist-information centers in front of Krua
Serf restaurant and at the Soi Chaiyapruek intersection.
None of the centers will begin operation, however, without additional staff and
funding, Ronakit said. The city does not have enough personnel to staff three
centers nor the money to build and staff them. So, before anything can happen,
the Tourism and Sports Ministry must be petitioned for a budget allocation.
No estimate was given on when funds might be approved.
