SURAT THANI, July 3 (TNA) – Thailand’s Ministry of Finance has allocated a budget of Bt 900 million to redevelop and upgrade infrastructure on the resort island of Samui in the southern province of Surat Thani.
Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij and Deputy Finance Minister Pruttichai Damrongrat visited Koh Samui to observe repairs and reconstruction work in progress of a 70 kilometre ring road around the island.
Rapid development related to tourism has caused flooding and heavier vehicle use has brought about damage to roads, so that existing infrastructure to serve tourism is insufficient. The newly-earmarked funds will be allocated to finance the project until 2012, Mr. Korn said.
The Finance Ministry has also conducted a feasibility study on building an international conference centre on a designated plot of land.
Koh Samui Tourism Association chairman Senee Puwasetthavorn said there were only a few hotels, sufficient to accommodate 100-200 people to attend a seminar.
If the government develops the area as a conference centre with capacity to serve thousands of attendees, the island will attract more tourists with higher purchasing power. Currently the island serves a clientele comprised largely of modestly funded backpackers and budget travellers.
It will also be able to hold larger events such as a crafts and products exhibition to help the island earn more income, said Mr. Senee. (TNA)
Business News : Last Update : 17:42:19 3 July 2009 (GMT+7:00)
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