Nakhon Ratchasima Residents Flock to Register for 'Thai Help Thai Plus' Program, Banks Packed as Elderly Nearly Trampled

On May 25, 2026, the 'Thai Help Thai Plus' program opened its first day of registration to help reduce the financial burden on citizens. The program has attracted massive public interest, with residents from across Nakhon Ratchasima province flocking to register for the 4,000-baht benefit. While some people successfully registered through the Pao Tang mobile application, many others—particularly elderly citizens and those unfamiliar with digital platforms—have traveled to Krung Thai Bank branches since early morning to request staff assistance with registration.

At Dan Khun Thot District in Nakhon Ratchasima, large crowds of people began queuing before the bank opened at 6:00 AM, with some arriving as early as 3:30 AM due to fears of missing the opportunity. When crowds grew too large, people began placing their shoes in line instead of standing, hoping to avoid fatigue and crowding. Most registrants are elderly citizens whose children brought them to complete the application process, as some had not yet verified their identity or were unable to install or use the Pao Tang app.

At Si Khiew District in Nakhon Ratchasima, conditions became particularly chaotic. When bank staff began distributing queue cards at 8:00 AM, large crowds surged forward simultaneously, creating a dangerous crush of people. Several elderly residents nearly fell during the commotion. One 87-year-old resident, Ros Khunkasem, told reporters: "I didn't know what was happening. People were pushing and shoving so hard I almost fell to the ground. I've broken my leg before and have difficulty walking. This was terrible—I don't understand why everyone was pushing like that."

Another registrant, 71-year-old Kham Phaw Phiruk, traveled from a neighboring district where there is no Krung Thai Bank branch. She explained that she came to register because she is not tech-savvy and needs bank staff assistance. "I've never participated in any government assistance program before. I'm hoping to finally benefit from this Thai Help Thai Plus initiative," she said.

Phen Khao Khai Mai, a 64-year-old resident, visited the bank to troubleshoot her Pao Tang app, which wasn't working despite entering her password. She requested staff assistance to investigate whether changing her phone number was the cause. Another 63-year-old woman praised the bank staff for efficiently completing her registration and providing excellent service, and expressed hope to receive the assistance funds on June 1.