Damaged power cables cause inconvenience for Samui (above) and Phangan.

Blackouts on the popular Thai tourist islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan continue as technicians work tirelessly to restore electricity and repair damaged underground cables.
 
Some parts of the islands have been without power since Tuesday morning after a section of an underground high-voltage cable out to sea off the West coast of Koh Samui, ruptured, Destination Asia Thailand reported.

Mobile generators have been transported by state agencies to affected areas to help maintain business and minimise inconveniences for locals and tourists alike.

The Provincial Electricity Authority of Thailand was forced to limit power supply reserves and distribute power to small portions of the islands in two-hour rotations during repairs.

Inspectors discovered that the company which supplies power to the islands from the mainland had temporarily shut off the electricity for regular maintenance but was unable to restart it, causing an underground sea cable to rupture.

Technicians are expected to complete repairs today and power should be restored within the next few days.    
 
Most of the hotels larger hotels on the islands have back-up generators which are able to maintain the basic functions of the hotels, while independent accommodations have reported some inconveniences.