Motorists, farmers and truck drivers in Buri Ram continued to queue at petrol stations on Thursday despite another 6‑baht price hike, saying they have no choice but to refuel to sustain their livelihoods.
Many are wasting hours in line when they could be working, as stations are still rationing fuel amid continuing problems with hoarding and distribution bottlenecks.
The frustrated drivers asked the government to suspend fuel exports to neighbouring countries to ease the domestic crisis of shortages and soaring prices.
The state Oil Fuel Fund announced the 6‑baht increase at 10pm on Wednesday, prompting many people to rush to petrol stations nationwide before the new prices took effect at 5am on Thursday.
Even after the adjustment, long queues were still seen at stations across the district bordering Cambodia. Residents said they feared prolonged shortages as they rely heavily on vehicles for work.
Many also want to keep extra fuel in case border clashes with Cambodia erupt again, so they can evacuate in time.
