Unbalanced reports, many chasing sensational stories, have impeded revival of the Thai resort island Phuket from the devastating tsunami, a local magazine Phuket protested on Wednesday.

"The news broadcast by global satellite TV and news organizations in the past week has given the world the impression that Phuket has been wiped out by the tsunami and now lies in ruins," said an e-mail sent by the magazine management to around 50 journalists based in Thailand.

"Two places in Thailand were 'wiped out' -- Phi Phi Island, 48 kilometers southeast of Phuket, and Khao Lak, 100 kilometers northin neighboring Phangnga province."

The devastating tsunami hit six southwestern provinces in Thailand, with the two high-end resort islands of Phi Phi and KhaoLak worst affected.

In Pangnga alone, the authorities have discovered 4,134 bodies of victims, while only 262 deaths were confirmed in Phuket.

However, since the first day of disaster, the more well-know Phuket has started serving as a coordination center for disaster-relief efforts and media reports, for its better facility and accommodation ability.

The exposure of Phuket in world media has led misunderstanding of Phuket's reality after the disaster, which will further hurt the island already suffered, according to the magazine.

Although most of the island's facilities untouched by the powerful tidal waves, local tourist agencies have dealt with unprecedented cancellation after the disaster.

Stressing none of the island's infrastructure has been closed down, writer of the e-mail asked recipients to forward the messageto more foreigners.

"There is no shortage of drinking water, food or serious threatof disease," said the letter. "Life in Phuket is surprisingly normal - if saddened by the deaths."

Thailand's Interior Minister Phokin Palakul on Sunday night held a press conference on the Patong Beach of Phuket, declaring the area re-open for tourists.

Source: Xinhua