PHUKET: The flood-ravaged road from Kathu to Patong reopened for pedestrians on Sunday, but all vehicles are barred pending repair work.
Phuket governor Narong Woonciew allowed commuters to travel on foot on the closed section of Road 4029 with officials accompanying them to ensure safety.
After days of heavy rain on the holiday island, last Wednesday the road was hit by a landslide that severely damaged the road surface and seriously eroded its foundation.
The closure caused problems for local residents who regularly use the route for work and other purposes, including visiting Patong Hospital.
Mr Narong said walking on the road would be banned if rain returns to the island.
Officials expect the road to be reopened for vehicles in a week. Drivers are advised to take secondary roads to Patong.
Patong Hospital is setting up a field hospital in Kathu, which will be opened for patients on Tuesday.
The current weather in Phuket is dry.