Massive Underwater Hanuman Statue to Be Submerged Off Phuket Coast in Ambitious Coral Reef Conservation Project

A towering five-metre-tall sculpture of Hanuman, the revered Hindu monkey deity, is set to make a dramatic descent to the ocean floor off the coast of Koh Racha Yai on March 26, marking a bold new chapter in marine conservation efforts in the region. The installation is part of the Rotary Club's ambitious "Save Underwater World" initiative, which aims to combine cultural artistry with environmental restoration.

The project carries a projected budget of more than five million baht, reflecting the scale and complexity of safely submerging a structure of this size while ensuring it serves as an effective artificial reef. Underwater sculptures of this kind are designed to provide hard surfaces upon which coral can attach and grow, gradually transforming into thriving marine ecosystems that support a diverse range of sea life.

Koh Racha Yai, located approximately 20 kilometres south of Phuket, is already a popular destination for divers and snorkelers, and the addition of the Hanuman statue is expected to significantly boost the area's appeal as an underwater attraction. The sculpture is anticipated to draw both conservation-minded visitors and diving enthusiasts eager to witness the unique fusion of Thai cultural heritage and ocean preservation.

The Rotary Club's initiative reflects a growing global trend of using art installations as tools for marine rehabilitation, with similar projects having found success in locations across Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and beyond. Organizers hope the underwater Hanuman will not only help restore damaged reef ecosystems but also raise public awareness about the urgent need to protect Thailand's precious coastal waters for future generations.

Original Article: Read the full story on Phuket News