Nithikuson Tham Phuket insists they can still help the public, despite having to bear the burden of refueling 12 ambulances.

*Nithikuson Tham Phuket insists they can still help the public, despite having to bear the burden of refueling 12 ambulances. — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.*

Published: 2026-03-20 08:19 UTC Event date: 2026-03-19

Nithikuson Tham Phuket Insists Public Aid Continues Despite Ambulance Fuel Burden

On March 19, 2026, the Nithikuson Tham Phuket Foundation confirmed it remains able to assist the public across Phuket, even as it faces rising costs to refuel its fleet of 12 ambulances. The charitable organisation, based in Talad Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, addressed concerns about the impact of potential fuel shortages and price increases on its emergency response operations.

Rising Fuel Costs Impact Phuket Ambulance Operations

At a press briefing on March 19, 2026, Lek Tantiwongpaisan, President of the Nithikuson Tham Phuket Foundation, along with Detthiwat Eakteawsakul, Executive Director of Public Relations, and Supachai Limphakornkul, Head of Manpower, discussed the challenges posed by the global fuel situation. Recent instability in the Middle East has led to concerns over fuel supply and price hikes in Thailand, directly affecting the foundation’s ability to operate its 12 ambulances and 3 rescue vehicles.

According to Detthiwat Eakteawsakul, the foundation currently consumes an average of 400 litres of fuel per day, refueling every two days to maintain readiness. Although two local petrol stations continue to provide support, any significant increase in fuel prices will force the foundation to absorb higher operating costs, potentially impacting the scope of its rescue missions.

Nithikuson Tham Phuket Foundation’s Ongoing Commitment

Despite these pressures, the Nithikuson Tham Phuket Foundation assured the public that its services remain uninterrupted for now. The organisation has a long history of responding to emergencies throughout Phuket’s three districts, including major incidents such as the One-Two-GO Airlines crash at Phuket International Airport and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

The foundation’s fleet now includes not only ambulances and rescue vehicles but also rubber boats to support water rescue operations. Detthiwat Eakteawsakul emphasised that, as of now, the foundation continues to provide normal assistance to residents, but warned that sustained fuel price increases could eventually force a reduction in some activities.

What’s Next for Emergency Services in Phuket

The Nithikuson Tham Phuket Foundation’s situation highlights the broader vulnerability of emergency services to fluctuations in fuel supply and cost. With fuel consumption averaging 400 litres per day and the possibility of further price hikes, the foundation may need to prioritise its missions or seek additional community support in the future.

Local authorities and the public are advised to stay updated on any changes to emergency response availability. The foundation’s leadership stated they will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates as needed, ensuring transparency and continued support for Phuket residents during this challenging period.

Source: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiWEFVX3lxTE1va0xzR3JNbUZKd0VEQ09QZlExank2VFZMMWt2QzA3MUhvNFVjWDE0RTBXV2pwTVB4M2ExOHlBbUlEaTR5bDNPOTlFNmR6SlJNdUg5NXBrN1M?oc=5