Fuel crunch in Thailand hits emergency medical vehicles in 39 provinces

Rescue missions in some areas have been restricted due to fuel shortage. Read more at straitstimes.com.

BANGKOK – Thailand’s Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said on March 19 that the fuel crisis has affected emergency medical service vehicles, prompting the Ministry of Public Health to instruct directors of all hospitals and provincial public health offices to address problems and monitor the situation closely.

He said conditions vary by location, but the government has discussed that ambulances and rescue vehicles must be given the highest priority, with reserves set aside to ensure they remain ready to save lives.

For fuel management in hospitals under the ministry, officials have been told to maintain sufficient reserves for at least one to two days of operations, while stressing that facilities should not stockpile beyond necessity.

Hospitals are also instructed to coordinate with fuel stations and regular business partners to jointly monitor fuel stocks and ensure enough supply for ambulances to refuel.

Secretary-General Pichet Nongchang of the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) said fuel shortages in many areas have been driven by public anxiety and panic over potential shortages and expectations of higher prices.

International conflict and war have disrupted normal fuel transport routes, pushing demand above typical daily levels, while many stations were not prepared. As fuel deliveries nationwide take time, supply has not kept up with public demand.