Land Transport Department Clarifies Fuel-Powered Tuk-Tuks Not Yet Banned
Thailand's Land Transport Department is only consulting the public on a potential future ban of fuel-powered tuk-tuks from central Bangkok, not implementing one yet. Any restrictions on combustion-engine vehicles would include a transition
The Department of Land Transport clarified on July 31, 2025, that no ban on fuel-powered tuk-tuks in central Bangkok has been implemented. Director Saropong Paithoonyapong explained that the department is only consulting the public on whether to eventually enact legislation restricting combustion-engine tuk-tuks in the central zone, with any such measure set for future implementation with a designated transition period.
The department notes that most tuk-tuks operating in Bangkok are fuel-powered and aging—typically 10 to 50 years old—with low safety standards. The proposed regulation aims to address noise and air pollution by banning combustion-engine tuk-tuks from central Bangkok's restricted area, which houses important national landmarks such as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram and the Grand Palace. The restriction would exempt electric tuk-tuks or allow operation during specific times designated by traffic officers.
Public consultation on the draft ministerial regulation runs from July 28 to August 27, 2025, after which the department will review feedback and proceed with further consideration.
