PHUKET, THAILAND – Transport authorities on Phuket insisted that taxi services across the province continued to operate without restrictions despite circulating social media rumors and economic concerns among drivers.
All-clear after social media rumors
The Department of Land Transport in Phuket assured residents and visitors that taxi services in the province were still fully operational. Officials said the clarification followed social media posts suggesting potential disruptions to the supply of taxis.
Authorities stressed that public transport had not been affected and that travelers continued to be transported reliably. The aim of the message was to restore confidence among both locals and tourists.
Authorities: Metered taxis operating “as usual”
On 6 April 2026, Adcha Bua-chan, director of the Phuket Provincial Transport Office, stated that metered taxis were still operating as normal. The vehicles were prepared to serve both local residents and visitors.
According to the transport office, the statement responded to growing uncertainty over the availability of ride services. Officials said there were no indications of a province-wide breakdown in operations.
Fleet figures: 1,798 metered taxis in Phuket
The provincial authority reported that the registered fleet consisted of 1,798 metered taxis. The figure was presented as evidence that sufficient capacity was available to meet daily demand.
Officials highlighted this as a stable basis for transport in key tourist and urban areas. In a region dependent on tourism, the availability of taxis was described as a central factor.
Almost complete switch to alternative fuels
More than 1,700 taxis in Phuket were already running on electric power (EV) or LPG, according to the authority. Only around 70 vehicles were still using conventional fuel, representing about 3.9% of the fleet.
The transition was portrayed as an adjustment to fluctuating fuel prices and a way to strengthen the reliability of the system. Officials also cited a reduced environmental impact as a positive side effect.
Checks at hotspots: Phuket Town, Patong and airport
Inspections at key locations such as Phuket Town, Patong and Phuket International Airport confirmed that taxis were available in sufficient numbers. Authorities said this was intended to ensure smooth traffic without interruptions.
They emphasized that no shortages had been identified at heavily frequented transport hubs. For travelers, this meant that arrivals and onward journeys were expected to remain predictable.
Economic pressure: Drivers warn of slump
At the same time, tuk-tuk and taxi drivers reported a sharp decline in their earnings and spoke of a serious crisis. Some operators warned that the traditional transport system could falter without rapid government support.
These accounts indicated that the debate centered not only on availability, but also on livelihood security within the sector. Specific official support measures were not detailed in the report.
Tourism in focus: Authorities seek to maintain trust
Relevant agencies underlined that Phuket remained fully prepared to welcome tourists and support the tourism-driven economy. They said the situation would continue to be closely monitored.
The intention was to signal public safety and day-to-day reliability at a time when rumors could quickly influence travel decisions. Authorities pointed to ongoing observation of the situation to maintain convenience for all passengers.