The fuel crisis has forced inter-district songthaew services in Chiang Mai to threaten stopping operations if diesel prices reach 35 baht per liter, with added difficulty in refueling. They are urging the government for immediate support.
On 24 Mar 2026 GMT+7, reporters noted that the overnight surge in diesel prices has worsened the expanding fuel crisis. Recently, several inter-district public transport operators in Chiang Mai Province have been severely affected and are considering halting services because they cannot bear the rising fuel costs. They have called on the government to quickly implement measures to assist public transport operators to prevent a chain reaction affecting passengers.
Our team surveyed the Warorot Market area in Mueang Chiang Mai District, a hub for many inter-district bus terminals including routes Chiang Mai–Mae Rim, Chiang Mai–Doi Saket, Chiang Mai–San Sai, as well as Chiang Mai–Mon Jam, Chiang Mai–Ban Mae Kampong, and Chiang Mai–Lamphun. Operators are facing unprecedented difficulties due to fuel shortages and scarcity of available diesel, forcing some to reduce their daily round trips from three to just one, resulting in decreased income.
With diesel prices jumping 1.80 baht overnight, operators are deeply concerned. Mr. Panom Thatinchan, a driver for the Chiang Mai–Doi Saket songthaew, stated that the current fare is 20 baht and cannot be raised without approval from the Department of Land Transport. The sudden diesel price increase has caused hardship. If diesel reaches 35 baht per liter without government relief, they will no longer be able to bear the costs and may have to suspend services.
Mr. Panom also urged the government to provide assistance through transport cooperatives, set special diesel prices for public transport groups, or consider raising fares to align with fuel costs, to help operators survive this crisis. Without intervention, passenger travel will suffer unprecedented disruption.
