Thai Transport Department Warns Ride-Hailing Apps Against Price Gouging During Floods
The Department of Land Transport has ordered ride-hailing platforms to maintain fair pricing and service availability as flooding impacts travel across Thailand.
On September 29, 2026, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) issued a directive to all ride-hailing application providers in Thailand, strictly prohibiting the exploitation of passengers during the current nationwide flooding crisis. DLT Director-General Sorapong Paitoonphong emphasized that platforms must ensure fare rates remain within legal limits and avoid excessive price surges that could disadvantage commuters facing travel difficulties.
For residents and travelers, this directive is significant as it aims to stabilize public transport access during a period of high demand and limited mobility. The DLT has instructed platforms to:
- Maintain fair pricing and strictly adhere to legal fare caps.
- Prevent drivers from charging unauthorized additional fees or refusing service without valid reasons.
- Provide drivers with real-time updates on flooded areas and road closures to ensure safer route planning.
The DLT plans to implement a "driver score" system to monitor compliance and penalize platforms or drivers found violating these regulations. While the department has mandated these measures, the effectiveness of these price controls across different platforms remains to be seen as the flood situation evolves. Commuters are encouraged to report unfair practices to the authorities if they encounter price gouging or service refusals.
