PATTAYA, Thailand — The Pattaya City Council held a heated session this week to discuss the growing concerns over fuel shortages and rising prices, warning that the crisis could significantly impact the local economy and the upcoming Songkran holiday period.
Council members highlighted reports that some gas stations in Pattaya and surrounding areas, including Sattahip and Bang Saray, have already begun limiting sales or temporarily closing, sparking fears of a wider disruption.
Councilor Thanaphat Udomrattanakulchai noted that the surge in fuel costs could directly affect the operation of government vehicles and essential services, especially those requiring travel across the city. “If prices continue to climb, budgets may not suffice, and public service efficiency could be compromised. We urge the administration to review fuel allocations and adjust procurement policies to reflect current market realities,” he said.
Mayor Poramet Ngampichet added that the spike in fuel prices is largely linked to tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted crude oil supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz and caused global energy markets to fluctuate. He stressed the need for clear, continuous government communication to reassure the public about domestic fuel reserves, which he confirmed are sufficient for at least three months.
Locally, Pattaya has implemented measures to manage immediate impacts. Waste collection continues as scheduled despite higher fuel costs, and the city has coordinated with major service stations to ensure government vehicles can refuel without interruption. However, tourism, the city’s main economic driver, remains vulnerable.
“The prolonged increase in fuel costs could raise travel expenses for visitors—by land, air, or sea—potentially discouraging tourists from visiting Pattaya,” Poramet said. “Reduced tourist numbers would directly affect hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and service workers, especially during peak periods like Songkran.”
To mitigate the impact, the city is enforcing strict energy-saving policies, including limiting office air-conditioning to 25–26°C and promoting energy conservation across all municipal departments. In addition, local authorities are encouraging residents to reduce household waste and separate organic waste at the source to cut fuel usage in garbage collection.
Officials emphasized that proactive planning and cross-sector cooperation are key to minimizing long-term effects, sustaining public confidence, and maintaining a safe, attractive environment for tourists during critical periods.
