Traffic situation in Phuket is expected to become more serious as the island enters the high tourist season. Local officials admit that there is no fast or effective solution to reduce traffic congestion, especially on the main roads used by tourists and residents every day.
Areas like Patong Hill, Chalong Circle and the Heroines Monument are already seeing long traffic jams, mostly during morning and evening hours. The problem is getting worse because of increased number of tour buses, rental cars and motorbikes arriving to the island.
Authorities say police officers will be placed on some key junctions and temporary traffic control will be used during big events. However, many locals believe these actions only help for short time and do not fix the real problem.
Tourists visiting Phuket are strongly advised to leave earlier than planned, avoid peak hours when possible and expect delays when traveling between beaches, hotels and airport. Without long-term planning, traffic problems in Phuket may continue to grow every high season.
