Gas protest: Public transport fleets roll up to Government House against rising NGV prices

Hundreds of public transport vehicles, led by several operators’ associations, converged outside Thailand’s Government House yesterday in a demonstration against soaring natural gas for vehicles NGV prices. The protestors, who included representatives of provincial and city public van operators, as well as bus, mini-bus, and songthaew associations, demanded a reduction in the NGV price from nearly 20 baht per kilogramme to 12.74 baht.

The protest culminated in the submission of a formal complaint to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, addressing their concerns about the escalating price of NGV, which they claimed had surged to nearly 20 baht per kilogramme. The complaint was received by Somkid Chueakong, the deputy secretary-general to the 61 year old prime minister.

In their letter, protestors called for a price freeze on NGV prices at 12.74 baht per kilogramme, a significant decrease from the current 19.59 baht, set on October 31, specifically for public transport vehicles. The associations had previously written to Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga on November 2, requesting a price reduction.

The protestors highlighted the financial burden many operators face, as their previous appeal remained unaddressed. The Covid-19 pandemic and the skyrocketing NGV prices have dealt a double blow to the industry, forcing many operators out of business.

Although they acknowledged the government’s efforts to form a working team to investigate the issues faced by public vehicle operators, the protestors emphasised the need for tangible measures to alleviate the high fuel costs.

Their demands included not only a reduction in the NGV prices but also the removal of any restriction on the quantity of NGV that public transport operators can purchase at a discounted price. They suggested this concession should be in place for a minimum of two years, reported Bangkok Post.

The protestors revealed that Energy Minister Pirapan had responded to their letter, stating that their demand was under consideration. Deputy Secretary-General Somkid assured the protestors that he would forward their complaint to both the Thai PM and the Energy Ministry. He added that the government intended to collaborate with relevant sectors to secure an NGV price freeze as part of their efforts to reduce energy prices.