Overview
- An Energy Ministry survey of about 1,500 stations on March 15–16 found roughly 10% closed and nearly 70% low on or out of some fuels.
- Wat Saman Rattanaram’s abbot warned services may be suspended, saying the temple has about 200 litres left, enough for only two cremations.
- Fuel retailers have limited purchases to curb hoarding as long lines form at stations despite official assurances of roughly three months of national stocks.
- Reports describe similar strain at temples across Thailand, with some facilities in other cremation-heavy countries such as India already suspending services.
- Coverage links the shortages to shipping disruptions tied to the US and Israeli war against Iran, highlighting Southeast Asia’s reliance on Middle Eastern oil.