Department of Land Transport Clarifies Tuk-Tuk Ban Rumors

On July 31, 2026, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) addressed recent media reports suggesting an imminent prohibition of fuel-powered tuk-tuks in inner Bangkok. Sorapong Paitoonphong, Director-General of the DLT, clarified that no such ban has been enacted. Instead, the department is currently in the preliminary stages of gathering public feedback regarding potential future regulations.

The DLT’s initiative aims to address concerns related to air and noise pollution, as well as safety issues associated with older vehicles. According to the department, many tuk-tuks currently operating in the capital are between 10 and 50 years old, raising questions about their safety standards and environmental impact. The proposed concept focuses on restricting combustion-engine three-wheelers in specific inner-city zones, such as areas surrounding major landmarks like the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

For residents and travelers, it is important to note that this is not a finalized policy. The DLT emphasized that the proposal has not been submitted to the government for approval, and no detailed implementation plan exists. If such a measure were to be adopted in the future, the department intends to provide a transition period. For now, tuk-tuk services remain unaffected, and the department continues to solicit public opinion on the matter.