PHUKET: Construction is to begin next month on a new international-standard jail for Phuket, the existing island prison's Commander, Pichit Wannajit, told Phuketwan today.
''The new jail will cost 796 million baht and take three years to complete in central Phuket, with accommodation for 1500 inmates,'' Commander Pichit said. ''Construction begins in August.''
The old jail in Phuket City, built more than a century ago to house 750 prisoners, now hosts 2940 men and women in conditions that can only be described as extreme.
With as many as 300 male prisoners squeezing into each of the ancient dormitories, conditions are so tight that individuals are unable to lie on their backs at night. Prisoners have to sleep on their sides. If one turns over, they all must turn over.
more: Work on New 796m Baht Phuket Jail Set to Start in August, Says Prison Commander - Phuket Wan