Nakhon Ratchasima – The Phimai district chief inspected fuel stations after a surge in people stocking up on fuel. Truck drivers complained about losing time searching for stations, having to stop and refuel at up to 10 stations per transport trip due to a limit of 1,000 baht per fill-up for large vehicles.
The nationwide fuel shortage at various service stations is a phenomenon caused by management issues among responsible authorities who have amplified news about fuel shortages linked to the conflict in the Middle East, exaggerating the situation. This has caused public panic, with many rushing to fill their vehicles, leading to quicker depletion of fuel supplies at stations, resulting in shortages and restrictions on purchase amounts. Additionally, fuel prices have increased, causing disruption and hardship across many professions.
Regarding this matter, on 19 March 2026, Mr. Siwasek Sinthoram, Phimai district chief, along with local administrative officials, village chiefs, and community leaders, surveyed various fuel stations in Phimai district, Nakhon Ratchasima province after discovering that many stations had insufficient fuel to meet customer demand.
They inspected the PTT fuel station at Yuka Intersection, Nai Mueang subdistrict, Phimai district, where diesel fuel was in highest demand. However, the operator reported that fuel sales continued without interruption.
The main reason for the increased fuel purchases is that many people are repeatedly refueling to stockpile due to fears that the situation will escalate and fuel will become unavailable. Most are stocking diesel fuel, which is used for agriculture, trucks, and heavy machinery.
A large truck driver said he has to stop and refuel at every station because each limits purchases to no more than 1,000 baht per fill. He ends up stopping at 10 stations daily, spending 10,000 baht per transport trip, which wastes significant transportation time. He urged the government to urgently resolve this problem for the public.