PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet inspected damaged roads on Big Buddha Hill in Pratumnak area on September 10 after a recent soil collapse created a large hole and raised safety concerns among runners and other users of the popular exercise route. The inspection followed reports of the damage and complaints from runners who regularly use the hill for exercise.
Pattaya’s Engineering Department had already placed concrete blocks around the damaged section as a temporary measure to prevent people from entering the dangerous area. The city has approved a budget for major repairs, with work scheduled to begin in 2027. However, Poramet has instructed the Infrastructure Development Division to conduct a detailed survey of the site and identify the most appropriate repair methods.
During a walk around Big Buddha Hill, officials found several other sections of road that were damaged, uneven and affected by potholes. As an immediate measure, the engineering team has been instructed to repair the worst sections by laying asphalt and resurfacing potholes. The work is expected to take no more than two weeks. The short-term repairs are intended to reduce risks for runners, residents and visitors who use the hill for exercise and recreation.
For sections where more extensive repairs are required, Pattaya plans to prepare a longer-term project for submission to the city council for additional funding. This is expected to include a new road overlay across the affected areas to improve the road surface and provide greater durability.
Poramet said the city would continue addressing the landslide damage and deteriorating road conditions to ensure Big Buddha Hill remains a safe and well-maintained public space for residents and tourists. The hill is a popular destination for exercise, with runners and other members of the public regularly using its roads and surrounding areas.
