Officials in Karon announced a sweeping crackdown on water sports safety protocols following the death of a parasailing staff member earlier this month. The high-profile meeting, held on Tuesday, January 14 at Karon Municipality, aimed to bolster safety for tourists and operators.
Chaired by Karon Police Chief Police Colonel Khundet Na Nongkhai and Phuket Marine Office Chief Natchapong Pranit, the session was attended by top officials, including Police Lieutenant Colonel Ekkachai Siri of the Tourist Police Division, and Karon Municipality Chief Sakchai Supaburut, as well as parasail and jet ski operators from Karon and Kata beaches.
The urgent gathering followed the death of Pathompong Sukduang, who fell 200 feet (60 metres) at Karon Beach on January 5 after failing to wear a harness or safety clip, both mandatory under longstanding safety guidelines.
“All parasail staff accompanying tourists must wear protective gear, including a harness and safety clip, during operations.”
Officials are now ramping up enforcement, with boat operators also under scrutiny. Violators face legal action, as police continue investigating the incident to determine accountability.
Operators were sternly warned against any form of aggression towards tourists.
“Conflicts should be resolved amicably and documented with photos or video before notifying law enforcement.”
The measures aim to restore confidence in Phuket’s water sports industry, a cornerstone of its world-class tourism reputation. Enhanced safety protocols, stricter enforcement, and professional behaviour standards are expected to protect staff and tourists, reported The Phuket News.
ORIGINAL STORY: Man falls from 15-storey height in Phuket parasailing accident
A man fell from a parasailing activity off the coast of Phuket, resulting in his death. The fall was reported to be nearly as high as a 15-storey building. The police are actively investigating the situation following a video shared by Phuket Times, which shows the fall accompanied by a message expressing condolences.
The incident took place at Karon Beach, Mueang district, Phuket, involving a 31 year old Thai employee, Pathompong, who was working as a parasailing assistant. On January 5, at approximately 5.30pm, while providing services to tourists, Pathompong attempted an unconventional manoeuvre by holding onto the parachute rope with his hands and using his legs to support a tourist. This position, which requires substantial strength, led to him losing his balance and falling into the sea.
After the fall, the boat operator transported Pathompong to Patong Hospital. An initial assessment by the doctor who performed the autopsy concluded that he had died at the scene near Karon Beach. This area is under the jurisdiction of the Karon Police Station.
In light of the incident, the investigation team from Patong Police Station coordinated with officials at Karon Police Station to conduct a joint inquiry with the doctor responsible. They have also contacted the family to arrange for the religious rites. Following the incident’s dissemination, many netizens have expressed their opinions online, noting the significant height from which Pathompong fell, reported KhaoSod.
The story Phuket cracks down on parasailing risks following accident as seen on Thaiger News.
