Chiang Mai is facing a widespread crisis as diesel and gasohol 91-95 fuels run out at many stations. Some pumps have begun posting signs apologizing for the inconvenience and prohibiting the filling of fuel into gallon containers or other storage vessels such as 200-liter drums.
The impact of the Middle East war crisis has caused Thai people nationwide to worry about a potential fuel shortage. In many provinces, people have panicked and started hoarding fuel for use in cars, motorcycles, agriculture, and general business. Additionally, some oil companies have announced price increases, leading to widespread turmoil across several provinces.
At 12:00 noon on 4 March 2026 in Chiang Mai province, reporters noted that although the government has urged people not to panic following Iran's announcement to close the Strait of Hormuz amid conflicts involving the United States and Israel's attacks on Iran, the public remains concerned about potential impacts. As a result, people have flocked to fill their tanks throughout the day, creating a lively atmosphere at gas stations across Chiang Mai.
For example, at the PTT station near Maejo University, both locals and students have been filling their tanks completely. Diesel and gasohol 91 and 95 fuels have run out at the station. Some customers have had to purchase premium diesel and gasohol 95 instead, despite these fuels costing 4-5 baht more per liter. The shortage has prompted some stations to post notices about the lack of fuel.
When reporters inquired at the station, they were told, “The fuel is currently out of stock because many people rushed to fill up after news of the conflict spread. Normally, the fuel delivery truck arrives once a day, but today it has not yet arrived, causing the shortage. We expect to resume service this evening as the delivery truck is currently en route.”
Meanwhile, some gas stations are still operating normally, but field observations show long queues of customers waiting. Some customers are unable to fill up by the time it is their turn because the fuel runs out first. Consequently, stations have posted signs forbidding customers from bringing containers or gallon drums to fill, as this is considered hoarding. This measure aims to distribute fuel more fairly among all users.