Phuket is gearing up for a major event this Thursday to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the devastating tsunami, which tragically claimed over 5,000 lives and injured approximately 8,000 others across Thailand. This calamity, provoked by a 9.1-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Sumatra on December 26, 2004, generated massive waves, inundated resorts packed with holiday-makers, and filled dire poverty-stricken communities along the Andaman coast, affecting six southern provinces including Phuket, Phangnga, Krabi, Trang, Satun, and Ranong.
The Tambon Mai Khao administrative organisation (TAO) is hosting several activities to honor this significant day. Sarawut Srisakhookham, the chair of Mai Khao TAO, stated the importance of remembrance ceremonies, commenting, "While the number of participants has fallen over the years, this year's remembrance event, marking two decades since the tragedy, is expected to draw a larger turnout." The event aims to bring together survivors and families remembering the loved ones they lost, with wreaths being laid at the memorial wall and flags from 45 nations, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of tsunami victims.
Phuket’s local authorities are actively engaged in ensuring the community remains aware of tsunami risks. Governor Sophon Suwanrat affirmed the serious approach taken toward the disaster warning system, underlining, "We're not taking any chances and we're alert of risks. People can be assured of the warning system which is regularly maintained, inspected and tested." This rigorous maintenance aims to mitigate the likelihood of future tragedies.
More than 230,000 lives were lost across several countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, India, and Sri Lanka, marking the tragedy as one of the deadliest natural disasters ever recorded. The catastrophe acted as a wake-up call, leading to significant innovations and enhancements to disaster alert systems across Thailand. Officials have installed tsunami buoys throughout the Andaman Sea, constructed 130 warning towers across the six affected provinces, and offered warning messages available in multiple languages such as Thai, English, German, Japanese, and Chinese.
According to deputy director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, recent implementations include the deployment of two new tsunami buoys to bolster surveillance and timely alerts. "The tsunami buoys undergo regular maintenance every two years," he explained, adhering to standards set by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Awareness and education are at the forefront of these efforts. Deputy Phuket governor Adul Chuthong urged the community to actively maintain the tsunami warning system and its equipment, stressing, "The monitoring system is a valuable investment because it can save lives and reduce damage." Currently, Phuket boasts 19 warning towers, with plans to refurbish existing towers and build three additional ones to refine the warning system.
Routine testing of the alert system is conducted daily at 8 am by the National Disaster Warning Centre. Chalermsak Maneesri, the mayor of Patong Municipality, echoed the importance of vigilance, confirming, "The warning system is in place, tests are conducted every week, and lifeguards are deployed around the clock." These efforts represent the community’s commitment to preparedness.
Despite advancements, some voices remain concerned about public memory and awareness of tsunami risks. Sueksit Suwannaditsakul, president of the Southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Association, remarked, "If there are concerns, it should be about the beach warning system and evacuation drills. Some hotels may take them for granted. Annual drills should be held and evacuation signs maintained in proper condition." His perspective highlights the need for continued vigilance and education as the anniversary approaches.
Commemorative events will also extend to Ban Nam Khem fishing village in Phangnga's Takua Pa district, where locals will gather to honor their own stories of resilience and loss following the disaster. An additional event is planned at the spot where Tor 813, a 60-tonne boat belonging to the Marine Police Division, was washed up by the tsunami. This boat has since been repurposed as a memorial, standing as a somber reminder of the day when nature's fury reshaped the region.
Reflecting on the past and emphasizing the importance of remembrance, this 20th-anniversary commemoration serves as not only a tribute to the victims but also as a stern reminder of how much remains to be done to protect communities from the threat of tsunamis and other natural disasters. The resolve and collective memory of those affected shapes the commitment to creating safer environments for future generations.
