Trat: Construction of a government-funded passenger ferry pier on Koh Kut is expected to be completed by the end of next year, although some ferry operators remain uncertain whether they will use the new facility.
Dechathorn Chan-ob, chair of the tambon Koh Kut administrative organisation, said construction of the Koh Kut Seafront pier was suspended for three months because of problems with the contractor and disruptions caused by the monsoon season and security tensions. He said work has resumed, with the Marine Department extending the construction contract.
However, he noted that the project, which requires several hundred million baht in investment, also faces logistical problems in transporting construction materials to the island.
The new pier, located at Ao Salad, is intended to serve passenger ferries bringing tourists to Koh Kut.
With tourist arrivals reaching 500,000 to 600,000 visitors annually over the past two years, the pier will provide convenience for both tourists and operators, Mr Dechathorn said.
He noted that the facility will improve safety as existing services rely mainly on privately owned piers, while the island's deep-water pier cannot always be used during rough seas.
However, Attapol Klintap, manager of Boonsiri Speed Boat, said the company is unlikely to relocate its operations because doing so would require additional investment in passenger facilities and transport services.
He said the company's current leased pier at Ao Salad can operate year-round, provides accommodation for staff and requires no further investment.
Koh Kut is currently served by four ferry operators running regular services between Laem Sok pier in Trat and the island.
