A BID is being made to provide Phuket with a light rail service that would answer many of the island's public transport needs.The complete network could cost as much as 52 billion baht.

Approval has yet to be given and the concept would need to proceed through several stages.

But the basic plan was explained yesterday in a meeting between the Governor, Wichai Praisa-Nob, representatives from the private firm making the proposal, and tourism industry leaders.

First phase would be a light rail route running from Phuket Airport to the Bypass Junction, where the route would split in two, one route continuing to Phuket City and the other turning and continuing along the Bypass Road to Chalong Circle.

That route would be 41.4 kilometres in total length.

The Phuket City-Patong route would follow soon after, along 18.4 kilometres. Three island lines combined would cover 76.6 kilometres.

Governor Wichai expressed enthusiasm for the idea, presented yesterday at Provincial Hall by Dr Allina Salim, director of Singapore-based Jade Trust Fund International.

The concept also met with the approval of Methee Tanmanatragul, president of the southern division of the Thai Hotels Association, and Eam Tawonwong, director of Phuket e-commerce.

Initial cost of the project would be met by private investment, with the return to come from fares on the routes.

The first line, along existing road routes, would take five years to complete, Dr Salim told the gathering.

The firm had access to the money required for investment in the project, the meeting was told. What's required next is a commitment from the national government.

Dr Salim said that in 30 days, after research had been completed, the firm should be able to specify more closely just how much the project should cost.

A referendum should also be conducted so that developers could be certain the project met with the approval of Phuket people, the meeting heard.

Governor Wichai gave his approval to the concept and offered support if required.

Asked why Phuket was considered worth the investment, Dr Salim said the island had made a quick comeback after the 2004 tsunami and was an international destination.


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