In Sangkhla Buri District, residents flocked to refill fuel in long queues. Operators stated that fuel prices remain normal but limit sales to 1,000 baht per vehicle and one jerrycan per person. Meanwhile, the district chief of Sangkhla Buri coordinated with security agencies to prevent fuel smuggling across the border.
On 8 March 2026, at the Dang Service gas station in Village No. 3, Nong Lu Subdistrict, Sangkhla Buri District, Kanchanaburi Province, many local residents lined up with cars, motorcycles, and fuel jerrycans to buy diesel, gasohol, and gasoline. The station area became crowded with vehicles waiting in line, with the queue stretching over 200 meters onto Highway 323 (Sangkhla Buri–Three Pagodas Pass). Police officers from Sangkhla Buri Police Station stepped in to manage traffic and prevent potential accidents.
A local minibus driver serving Sangkhla Buri told reporters that he came early to refill 500 baht worth of fuel because the previous evening, when he tried to refill, the station had run out. Although he still had half a tank, he decided to top up for peace of mind as he relies on fuel daily for his livelihood. He noted that since the conflict between the U.S. and Iran began, there has been a daily surge in vehicles refilling fuel, unlike before. Fortunately, fuel prices have not yet increased.
Another man said he came to buy fuel today to mow grass in his garden. He purchases fuel every two to three days, filling 20-liter jerrycans each time. He noted that queuing and waiting times are longer now compared to before.
Ms. Pannathorn Tengtiang, manager of Dang Service, told reporters that fuel is still sold to the public as usual, about one to two vehicles per day depending on stock from PTT's warehouse. However, increased customer demand sometimes causes fuel shortages, leading to temporary closures and notices for customers to return the next day. Starting today, sales are limited to 1,000 baht per vehicle and one 20-liter jerrycan per person. Fuel prices remain unchanged: diesel at 31.91 baht/liter, gasohol 95 at 32.82 baht/liter, gasohol 91 at 32.42 baht/liter, gasohol E20 at 29.01 baht/liter, and gasoline at 41.41 baht/liter. The station commits not to exploit consumers by raising prices and will ensure sufficient fuel supply per government policy.
Sangkhla Buri District has two gas stations: PTT and PT. Previously, there was no fuel shortage for local residents. However, currently, fuel supplies at both stations are insufficient, sometimes forcing service closures due to running out of fuel. Fuel deliveries have not kept pace with local demand.
Mr. Suriyasak Muean-um, Sangkhla Buri district chief, stated he has instructed the district officer and security personnel to monitor the situation closely. Noting that fuel demand in Sangkhla Buri has risen despite a decrease in population and tourist numbers, he emphasized preventing illegal fuel exports. Authorities at the Border Patrol Police checkpoint 134 in Ban Songkalia and the security checkpoint at Ban Nam Kiek are instructed to conduct strict vehicle inspections and enforce the law immediately if violations are found.
On 17 February 2026, the Cabinet resolved to designate parts of Kanchanaburi Province—specifically Sangkhla Buri and Mueang District (Phu Nam Ron checkpoint)—as border control zones under the 1981 Border Goods Control Act. This aims to curb smuggling, counterfeit goods, and tax evasion by strictly controlling import and export activities, especially concerning fuel and electrical equipment.