The committee established to resolved Pattaya’s jet ski problems would take the first step toward ending the never-ending series of scams by restricting operators to a centralized, monitored parking zone.
The panel, composed of city, police and marine officials, agreed Aug. 30 a zone should be set up on Pattaya Beach as a test project that could be expanded to Jomtien and Naklua beaches if successful.
Pattaya City Council Chairman Sanit Boonmachai makes a valid point during the meeting on what to do about the jet ski situation.
The plan calls for restricting all jet ski operators to the city zone and registering their information with the city. City or police officials would be stationed in the zone to enforce regulations and resolve disputes. Those found violating regulations would be subject to “harsh penalties,” said Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh, who chairs the committee.
“This has been a prolonged issue considered pivotal and immensely destructive to tourism since the current situation is starting to expand, has become national, and brought to the attention of the government,” Ronakit said.
Pattaya City Council Chairman Sanit Boonmachai said more than 450 jet skis owned by 168 individuals operate on area beaches, including Koh Larn. “The problem is just being caused by a minority of these, but measures must be taken to fix and prevent them to maintain a good image for tourism,” he said.
The committee also wants to implement an insurance system to cover any damage to jet skis, but panelists required more time before taking their next step.
