For anyone considering coastal property in Phuket, the unfolding controversy over a proposed marina in Pa Khlok offers a useful signal about the environmental scrutiny facing waterfront developments — and the rising political cost of projects seen as poorly consulted or ecologically damaging.
Phuket MP Somchart Techathavorncharoen has released images showing red coral and gorgonian sea fans in Ao Kung Bay, where a marina project is planned, and alleged that nearby mangrove forests are being deliberately poisoned and destroyed to clear land for development.
The claims follow growing community opposition to the project, with residents and fishermen arguing the development has advanced without meaningful public consultation and could severely impact fishing grounds relied upon by communities in Phuket, Krabi and Satun.
What the MP found
Mr Somchart said he and local fishermen recently conducted a boat survey in the Ta Chaeng and Rong Nam Thip areas of Ao Kung Bay, documenting what he described as a rich marine ecosystem supporting red coral, gorgonians and feeding grounds previously visited by dugongs.
He warned that dredging and large-scale construction linked to the marina could devastate marine habitats, destroy fish nurseries and permanently prevent dugongs from returning to the area.
On land, Mr Somchart claimed villagers had reported attempts by investors to encroach on surrounding mangrove forests by secretly poisoning trees and cutting down large mangroves believed to be more than 150 years old.
“Secretly poisoning and cutting down 150-year-old trees is an inhumane act for personal gain in the project,” he said in a statement posted online.
EIA and consultation under question
Mr Somchart questioned the transparency of the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), saying local residents insisted they had never been properly included in any public hearing process.
He noted that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had previously opposed the project and called for a full investigation into whether legal procedures had been properly followed.
The MP said he would immediately submit all evidence, including photographs of the coral reefs, information on dugongs and evidence of mangrove destruction, to the parliamentary committee and relevant agencies for investigation.
Why this matters for Phuket property
Marina and waterfront developments are a visible part of Phuket’s luxury property landscape, often linked to villa estates, yacht services and high-end lifestyle amenities.
But the Ao Kung controversy highlights the rising political and regulatory risk facing coastal projects that are seen as environmentally damaging or poorly consulted, especially when they involve coral reefs, mangroves, dugong habitats or community fishing grounds.
For property buyers considering villa or land purchases near proposed marina, waterfront or resort developments, the case suggests that project approval alone does not guarantee completion.
Community opposition, parliamentary scrutiny, NHRC intervention and EIA challenges can all delay or reshape developments, even after permits have been issued.
For developers and investors, the Ao Kung case points to the importance of genuine consultation, transparent EIA processes and early engagement with local communities, especially in coastal areas where fishing, marine ecosystems and land use overlap.
What remains unclear
The article does not name the developers behind the proposed marina or clarify the current legal status of the project.
It is unclear whether construction has begun, whether the EIA has been formally challenged or suspended, or what specific action the parliamentary committee or relevant agencies may take in response to the MP’s evidence.
It is also unclear whether the alleged mangrove destruction and tree poisoning have been independently verified or are under official investigation.
What is clear is that the project faces organised community opposition, parliamentary attention and allegations of both environmental damage and inadequate consultation — all factors that can create uncertainty for linked property, infrastructure or investment plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ao Kung marina controversy about?
A Phuket MP has released images showing coral reefs in Ao Kung Bay, where a marina is proposed, and alleged that nearby mangrove forests are being deliberately poisoned. Community opposition and questions over the EIA consultation process have intensified scrutiny of the project.
Could this delay the marina project?
Possibly. The MP has pledged to submit evidence to the parliamentary committee and relevant agencies for investigation. The National Human Rights Commission previously opposed the project, and residents say they were not properly consulted during the EIA process.
What does this mean for Phuket waterfront property buyers?
It highlights the environmental and political scrutiny facing coastal developments in Phuket. Buyers considering property near proposed marina, resort or infrastructure projects should understand that approval does not guarantee completion, especially where community opposition, coral reefs, mangroves or fishing grounds are involved.
Where is Ao Kung Bay?
Ao Kung Bay is located in Pa Khlok, on Phuket’s northeast coast. The area is used by local fishing communities and, according to the MP, supports coral reefs and was previously visited by dugongs.
Has the project been officially suspended?
The article does not confirm whether the project has been suspended or formally challenged. The MP has called for a full investigation and said he would submit evidence to the parliamentary committee and relevant agencies.
Sources
- The Phuket News — Ao Kung coral, mangrove damage claims intensify — link
