A feasibility study into carving Thailand's 77th province out of parts of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan will likely be finished in time for His Majesty the King's 80th birthday next year. The areas designated for the proposed new province comprise Cha-am district in Phetchaburi and the districts of Hua Hin and Pran Buri and Sam Roi Yot subdistrict in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The study was approved at yesterday's cabinet meeting.

Caretaker Interior Minister Kongsak Wantana said the plan has been considered for some time.

The creation of a new province, yet to be named, would celebrate the King's birthday.

The Interior Ministry has the Provincial Administration Department to gauge local opinions about the new province.

The seaside province would enjoy administrative flexibility with tourism as its main cash generator, said interior permanent secretary Sucharit Patchimnand.

Beaches in Cha-am and neighbouring Hua Hin draw local and foreign tourists to the two provinces.

Findings from the study would be presented to the cabinet for consideration. The creation of a new province would have to be approved by parliament.

A source in cabinet said the new province was Mr Thaksin's own idea.
Bangkok Post - Aug 06

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