Phuket is gearing up for a greener future with the launch of a free air-conditioned electric bus service in the heart of the city. Scheduled to accelerate on May 9, this eco-friendly initiative is driven by a collaboration between local companies under the banner of PKCD and the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation.
The announcement for the 22-seat Smart Bus EV was made yesterday, spearheaded by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat. Supporting the new initiative included Rewat Areerob, President of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), Phuket Town Mayor Saroj Angkhanapilas, Lertchai Wangtrakuldee, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office, and Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, President of the Phuket Tourist Association.
The service, open for both residents and tourists, will initially operate every day as a trial period. The buses will operate along a circular route every 30 minutes, from 11am to 10pm. The bus route comprises 16 stops, with Luang Por Rd being the terminus where buses will be parked.
Phuket Smart Bus has contributed four electric buses to provide the service. The operator, which also runs a service from Phuket International Airport to Patong to Rawai, has 14 buses in total. All buses will eventually be converted to electric vehicles (EVs).
Niphon Ekwanich, Chief Advisor to the PKCD Executive Board, emphasised the importance of sustainable urban development and the use of clean energy in enhancing local lifestyles and promoting environmentally friendly tourism. He explained that both PKCD and the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation were established to execute various projects related to urban development and environmentally friendly initiatives respectively, reported Phuket News.
Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, Chairman of the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, pointed out that the electric bus project addresses the issues of traffic congestion and insufficient parking in Phuket Town. By offering an eco-friendly travel option, the project encourages tourists and residents to utilise public transportation.
“Using electric buses will reduce air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions, promoting and supporting exchanges and connections between government agencies, the private sector, and related sectors.”
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