Bangkok: Tuk-tuks are not yet prohibited from using gasoline to operate in inner Bangkok, the Department of Transport clarifies, adding that they are only seeking public feedback. According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Land Transport clarified that there is no current ban on gasoline-powered tuk-tuks in the area. They emphasized that they are gathering feedback to address noise and air pollution issues commonly associated with these vehicles.
Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport (DLT), addressed news reports about potential restrictions on gasoline-powered tuk-tuks. He explained that the department is soliciting opinions on enacting legislation to restrict internal combustion engine tuk-tuks only within inner Bangkok in the future, with a predetermined timeframe for implementation.
The tuk-tuks used in Bangkok are typically internal combustion engine vehicles that are between 10 and 50 years old, with low safety standards. Consequently, the department's concept of seeking public opinion is still under development and has not been formally submitted to the government.
The Department of Land Transport is conducting a public opinion survey to draft a ministerial regulation that would prohibit gasoline-powered three-wheeled taxis, or tuk-tuks, from operating in inner Bangkok. The rationale is that inner Bangkok is home to important national landmarks, such as Wat Phra Sri Rattanasasadaram (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), various royal temples, and significant historical sites popular with tourists.
Designating this area as a controlled zone for internal combustion engine tricycles aims to regulate noise and air pollution. The draft ministerial regulation proposes to prohibit three-wheeled taxis from operating in inner Bangkok, except for electric versions or during times specified by traffic police, ensuring effective control over tuk-tuk usage and pollution.
The Department of Land Transport invites public comments on this draft regulation via the Central Legal System website, accepting input from July 28, 2026, to August 27, 2026.