Amnat Charoen Van Operators Struggle With Rising Fuel Costs
Fuel prices in Amnat Charoen have pushed diesel to 43.55 baht per litre, raising costs for passenger van operators while fares remain unchanged. Operators on the Amnat Charoen–Ubon Ratchathani route report sometimes carrying only three or four passengers, prompting calls for government help to avoid fines and costly vehicle replacements.
A van operator on the Amnat Charoen–Ubon Ratchathani route told reporters that even a one‑baht fare increase could put them at risk of being fined by transport officials. He said that if fuel prices keep rising, the business is no longer worthwhile, especially as passenger numbers have dropped during the school break – sometimes only three or four people ride his 13‑seat van. Other operators who have switched to 20‑seat minibuses also urged the government to show sympathy, noting that many vans are still roadworthy but will soon be forced off the road when their service licences expire in March, requiring costly replacements despite the weak demand.
