CHIANG RAI – The Governor of Chiang Rai led teams from the energy office, commerce officials, and weights and measures inspectors to check fuel depots and gas stations across the province after fuel shortage rumors online stirred panic.
He confirmed fuel supplies are still adequate, urged the public not to panic, and announced stricter enforcement through six measures to stop hoarding and unfair pricing.
On Wednesday, Chiang Rai Governor Choochip Phongchai went on-site with a joint task team from energy, commerce, and weights and measures agencies. Together, they inspected fuel storage facilities and service stations throughout Chiang Rai to reassure residents and calm concerns.
The governor said people should stay informed but remain calm. He stressed that fuel in Chiang Rai is not running out, and he asked residents to keep daily life normal instead of rushing to stock up.
Fuel in Chiang Rai is Not Scarce
He also announced a 24-hour hotline for reporting anyone who tries to take advantage of the situation. Officials will closely enforce six strict measures aimed at preventing hoarding and protecting consumers.
“We want Chiang Rai residents to understand what’s really happening,” he said. “Fuel in our province is not scarce. Please live as usual and don’t panic-buy or store extra fuel, because that only creates a new problem.”
Chiang Rai Provincial Energy Officer Prasak Ngamsomphak added that some residents, worried by the rumors, have been bringing containers to purchase more fuel than normal. As a result, daily demand has jumped, and stations are running out faster than usual.
However, the province has already coordinated with operators to increase delivery trips. He also pointed out that Chiang Rai has its own fuel depot, which helps speed up distribution compared with other areas.
He confirmed fuel prices are not increasing and supplies remain sufficient, so residents should avoid hoarding and continue normal use.
National Freeze on Diesel Prices
Meanwhile, Thailand’s government has ordered a temporary 15-day freeze on diesel prices, holding the nationwide cap at 29.94 baht per liter starting March 3, 2026. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the move, and Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon is carrying it out through the Oil Fuel Fund.
The goal is simple: keep drivers and households from feeling sudden spikes in global oil prices. Those prices have jumped as fighting in the Middle East grows, with added concern over shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
As a result, major fuel sellers such as PTT, Shell, and Caltex are keeping prices steady (or rolling them back where needed). The Oil Fuel Fund will cover the difference during the freeze, and in some cases, the support also extends to petrol and gasohol. Officials also say Thailand has about 60 days of fuel reserves, so they’re asking people not to panic buy or hoard while the market stays unstable.
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