For countless years, the vivid pink Pho Thong buses have cruised the streets of Phuket, serving as both a practical mode of transport and an emblem of the town’s vibrant culture. With their distinctive design—featuring converted six-wheeled flatbed trucks adorned with wooden bench seats and railings—these buses were an essential part of daily life in Phuket. Sadly, their era has come to an end, ushered out by the arrival of 24 brand new electric buses from China, each boasting a hefty price tag of over 5 million baht. This transport revolution marks a pivotal shift for Phuket Town, with the native Pho Thong buses, introduced in April 2008 under the guidance of Paiboon Upatising, taking a final bow. The buses were more than mere vehicles; they were a tribute to the rich ethnic Chinese heritage in Phuket Town. The name “Pho Thong” itself is a spirited nod to the Hokkien…
