PATTAYA, Thailand – Parents in Sri Racha are bracing for higher back-to-school expenses as student transport operators prepare to increase fares due to rising fuel prices.
Operators say the surge in fuel costs has significantly impacted their income, with many now considering raising monthly transport fees by 100–200 baht per student.
Joob Sermsri, 56, a school transport provider in Sri Racha, explained that he currently charges around 1,000 baht per month per student. His service includes picking up children from their homes within housing estates and transporting them to schools across the district, then returning them home after classes.
With the new school term set to begin on May 17, he said pricing adjustments will depend on the number of students using the service. If his vehicle reaches full capacity of around 13 students, he may be able to maintain current rates. However, if numbers fall short or fuel costs continue to climb, fares could rise to approximately 1,200 baht per month.
He added that discussions with parents are already underway, noting that multiple cost factors—including fuel, engine oil, and vehicle wear and tear—are forcing operators to reconsider pricing.
Joob also called on the government to address rising fuel prices, warning that continued increases could push parents to withdraw from transport services altogether due to affordability concerns.
Typically, one vehicle serves around 10–13 students per trip. Operators say full capacity helps offset costs, but lower numbers can quickly lead to losses, forcing some to consider shutting down their services entirely.
