Fuel panic as queues snaked for kilometres last night before Bt6 hike

Thai motorists rushed to refuel their vehicles last night, ahead of a steep 6 Baht/litre price hike, which took effect at 5am today, triggering heavy congestion at service stations nationwide.

In many areas, queues stretched for kilometres, with some outlets forced to close earlier than usual as they ran out of fuel.

On social media platforms, motorists shared images of themselves waiting in long lines inside their vehicles. One user wrote that they were “just third in line” when the station suddenly turned off its lights, saying “no more fuel.”

Two widely shared Facebook posts, which drew hundreds of comments, read: “Where are you now as the oil price jumps by 6 Baht/litre on March 26?” and “Which petrol stations still have fuel?”

The surge in demand followed a decision by the Oil Fuel Fund Executive Committee to reduce subsidies on diesel and gasoline, resulting in a retail price increase of six baht per litre across all fuel types.

Many motorists said they rushed to fill their tanks after learning of the increase, hoping to ease the financial burden. They noted that a jump of six baht per litre would inevitably raise their costs and affect their ability to earn a living.

Consumers also expressed concern that continued increases in fuel prices could have long-term consequences, with no clear mitigation measures in place.

They urged the government to review its pricing policy, warning that higher fuel costs are likely to push the prices of goods and other expenses up.

In Phra Pradaeng district of Samut Prakan, heavy traffic was reported on main roads, including Suksawat, Pracha Uthit and Pu Chao Saming Phrai, as residents flocked to service stations. Some stations ran out of fuel and had to close early.

Similar scenes were reported along the Bang Na-Trat, Thepharak and Srinagarind roads, where queues built up quickly and certain types of fuel, especially diesel, sold out rapidly. Some people left their homes late at night to refuel, while others brought containers in which to store fuel in advance.

Service station operators insisted there was no hoarding, saying supplies were sold as usual and prices adjusted in line with government announcements.

In Pattaya, Chon Buri, people crowded petrol stations across the city, slowing traffic in surrounding areas. Staff worked at full capacity to meet surge in demand.

One local resident said the price hike will directly affect travel costs and daily expenses, especially for those who rely on vehicles for their livelihoods.

In Ayutthaya, long queues were also reported along Rojana Road, heading towards Wang Noi district, near the Rojana Industrial Estate. Traffic slowed intermittently as vehicles filled station forecourts.

A rescue worker from a local foundation said the organisation had coordinated internally to identify stations with available fuel and ensure vehicles were fuelled in advance to maintain readiness for emergency operations.

If fuel prices continue to rise, the foundation may need to adjust its operations by reducing the number of vehicles deployed at each location to manage costs, the worker said.

Reporters found that many petrol stations were unable to meet the sudden surge in demand, with some running out of fuel in less than an hour and temporarily suspending services.

Despite this, queues remained heavy in several areas, with motorists continuing to line up as soon as news of the price hike broke.