Ubon ratchathani: "Kungfu Wasawan" has highlighted a critical shortage of fuel at border gas stations, forcing villagers to queue for 7-8 hours for refills, with some arriving as late as 8 PM the following day. This situation has rendered them unable to work, prompting calls for a quota limit on fuel shipments to neighboring countries to prioritize domestic needs. He warned of a potential crisis of confidence if communication management does not improve.
According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives meeting, chaired by Ms. Mallika Chiraphanvanich, First Deputy Speaker, addressed an urgent motion proposed by six political parties concerning the energy crisis and its impact on the public. Mr. Wasawath Puangphornsri, a Member of Parliament and leader of the Thai Ruam Palang Party, noted three key issues during a visit to Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. He observed numerous oil tankers transporting fuel to neighboring countries, yet the final gas station before the border, a PTT station, was out of fuel. This led to 7-8 hour queues, preventing villagers from earning a living.
Mr. Wasawath acknowledged the government's rationale of exporting 5 million liters of fuel to Laos and Myanmar for electricity but argued for prioritizing local needs, likening it to an airplane scenario where passengers must first secure their own oxygen masks. He suggested restricting or slowing oil exports, proposing dialogues between energy regulatory agencies and neighboring countries to establish fuel supply quotas.
He further criticized government communication, pointing out that inconsistent messages, like announcing an imminent oil price hike, cause panic and confusion. He advocated for centralized information dissemination to prevent misunderstandings.
Mr. Wasawath also highlighted the plight of truck operators and independent gas stations, noting they face higher prices than what they charge. This affects the community, with small gas stations forcing residents to queue from early morning until late at night, exacerbating farmers' hardships.
In conclusion, Mr. Wasawath emphasized the logistical challenges faced by truck operators, who are limited to minimal fuel purchases, significantly elongating travel times from Ubon Ratchathani to Laem Chabang. He urged the government to address these issues, warning that public disbelief in claims of no fuel shortage could escalate into a broader crisis of faith.