Local authorities have called for an urgent beach cleanup at Phuket's Hat Karon due to concerns about the long-term impact on tourism.
Governor Sophon Suwannarat ordered cleanup measures for Hat Karon, Hat Kata and Hat Patong, with a focus on the removal of beach umbrellas and sunbeds.
The governor said that while Hat Patong has managed to designate a sunbed and umbrella area which accounts for 10% of the beach space, Hat Karon has not been as successful in reining in the rentals.
Mr Sophon said Hat Karon is in a worrying state because of the crowding of umbrellas and sunbeds which block public walkways. The problem is thought to drive away visitors, he added.
He said local authorities in Hat Karon were planning beach zoning, limiting umbrellas to 10% of the beach area.
Beachfront billboards that are eyesores will be taken down, according to Mr Sophon.
