Phuket Landslide Investigation and Insurance Claims Spark Parliamentary Debate
A Democrat Party MP has urged the Thai government to clarify disaster insurance coverage and investigate the root causes of recent landslides in Phuket.
On October 28, 2026, during a parliamentary session, Democrat Party MP Karn Tangpong raised urgent concerns regarding the severe flooding and landslides in Phuket. Addressing the government, he demanded a thorough investigation into whether these disasters were caused solely by heavy rainfall or exacerbated by illegal construction and land filling that obstructed natural drainage paths. He emphasized that if building control laws were violated, those responsible must face immediate legal consequences.
Furthermore, the MP called for proactive measures to prevent future tragedies, including the implementation of an effective early warning system, concrete evacuation plans, and strict zoning of high-risk areas. A significant point of contention is the government’s 15-billion-baht disaster insurance scheme. Residents affected by the recent events remain uncertain about their eligibility for compensation. The MP has formally requested that the government clarify whether the current landslides and flooding fall under the policy’s coverage, ensuring that victims receive the support they are entitled to.
For residents and travelers, this situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding infrastructure safety and disaster preparedness in Phuket. While the government is under pressure to provide answers, it remains to be confirmed how the insurance claims process will be structured and whether specific construction projects will be held accountable for the environmental impact.
