Buriram's six-wheeled songthaews are in a severe crisis as diesel prices reach 44.24 baht per liter. Out of 90 vehicles, only 3 remain operating. Operators cannot bear the high costs, raising fears the service may become a thing of the past, causing hardship for locals commuting to markets and doctors in Buriram city.
On 2 Apr 2026 GMT+7 in Buriram province, operators of six-wheeled songthaews serving routes between villages and subdistricts were hit hard by diesel prices rising almost daily. The latest increase added 3.50 baht per liter, pushing prices to 44.24 baht per liter. Fuel costs jumped sharply, from around 200–300 baht daily to 500–600 baht per day.
Meanwhile, passenger numbers have steadily declined. Some days, fare income does not cover fuel costs. This impact has drastically reduced the number of six-wheeled songthaews still in service, dropping from over 90 vehicles province-wide to only 3. Many operators have reluctantly stopped running their vehicles, unable to sustain the increased expenses. If fuel prices remain high, six-wheeled songthaews may become a thing of the past.
Mr. Jam Romramy, 66, a six-wheeled songthaew driver, said he has driven these vehicles for over 30 years, serving several subdistricts in Mueang and Prakhon Chai districts. Previously, fuel costs averaged 200–300 baht daily, but after the continuous diesel price hikes, he now pays 500–600 baht daily. Meanwhile, fares remain the same and passenger numbers are steadily decreasing.
Due to this impact, many six-wheeled songthaews have stopped operating because they cannot afford the costs. If fuel prices continue to rise, the service may disappear entirely, becoming only a legend. This would affect locals who rely on these vehicles for trips to markets and hospitals in Buriram city, causing them hardship. They urge the government to urgently address fuel price issues.
Ms. Sangwan Yungramy, 63, a passenger for over 30 years, said she finds the six-wheeled songthaews convenient and economical. The fare is only 40 baht to the destination. Using other transport means would require an additional motorcycle taxi fare, increasing costs. There used to be many vehicles, but now only 3 remain, sometimes just one runs per day. If fuel prices rise further, the service might stop completely, impacting locals traveling to markets or hospitals. She hopes the government will act quickly to lower fuel prices.