Safety
Residents in Pathum Thani Demand Relocation of Coin-Operated Fuel Dispensers
Local residents in Pathum Thani have petitioned authorities to remove coin-operated fuel dispensers installed near high-voltage power lines and underground gas pipelines, citing severe safety concerns.
On September 2, 2026, officials from the Khlong Luang Municipality, led by Director of the Engineering Division Theerathat Chamchaem, held a public hearing in the White House community of Pathum Thani province. The meeting addressed urgent complaints from local residents regarding the installation of coin-operated gasoline dispensers along a main road in the area.
According to Khaosod Online Thailand, residents expressed significant fear regarding the location of these machines. The dispensers are situated directly above underground gas pipelines and adjacent to high-voltage power poles. Community members highlighted that this specific site has experienced repeated electrical fires and transformer explosions—reportedly occurring five times in the past. Residents fear that a potential short circuit could ignite the fuel in the machines, leading to a catastrophic explosion in this densely populated residential zone.
For residents and visitors, this situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding the regulation of informal fuel infrastructure in residential areas. While the municipality has initiated a formal dialogue to seek a resolution, the immediate status of the dispensers remains unchanged. It is yet to be confirmed what specific enforcement actions or relocation timelines the municipality will implement following the public hearing. Authorities are currently evaluating the risks to determine the next steps for community safety.