BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Land Transport has launched a public consultation on banning petrol-powered tuk-tuks from central Bangkok. Only electric tuk-tuks and scheduled trips would be allowed.
The draft regulation targets three-wheeled taxis with combustion engines in the inner city. Exceptions apply for electric vehicles or time windows announced by traffic police. The public can submit feedback until August 27.
Consultation open for one month
The hearing began on July 28, 2026, and ends on August 27. Interested parties can submit their opinions on the planned restrictions.
The Department of Land Transport will evaluate the feedback and consider it in the further process.
Protecting temples and historic sites
The authority justifies the plan with the many culturally significant locations in the inner city. These include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, other royal temples, and national historical sites.
These places are popular with Thai and foreign tourists. The restriction on combustion-engine tuk-tuks aims to reduce noise and air pollution in those areas.
Tourist heart of Bangkok in focus
The planned scope lies in the tourist core of the capital, where the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and other royal temples are located. Thousands of visitors pass through every day.
The Ministry of Transport expects noticeably quieter streets and cleaner air in the historic districts under the new rules.
What happens next
After the consultation ends, the Department of Land Transport will review the submitted feedback. The final regulation text will be drafted based on that.