PHUKET: Patong will soon have a network of public vehicles that will circulate at regular intervals, charging a reasonable fee for a ride, if the town’s new mayor has her way.

In an exclusive interview with the Phuket Gazette today, Mayor Chalermluck Kebsab and an associate outlined the system that they would like to see replace taxi ranks in the popular beach town.

“With the taxi booths gone, we have the opportunity to create a system of public transportation in Patong,” Ms Chalermluck said, adding that the displaced drivers could find jobs in the new system.

“We are envisioning public vehicles that circulate 24 hours a day on a fixed route,” said the associate who devised the plan, but asked not to be named.

“The cost would be between 20 and 50 baht, but that needs to be discussed with the Phuket Land Transport Office and the Governor’s Office, as well as tut-tuk and taxi representatives,” said Ms Chalermluck.

“The goal is to agree on a price that covers operating costs and is reasonable for users, both tourists and local people."