Tensions have escalated in Krabi Province, as tuk-tuk drivers in the Ao Nang tourist area demand urgent intervention from local authorities to address a growing dispute with Grab cars. On November 5, 2024, about 80 tuk-tuk operators, led by Mr. Somkid Senpan, the President of the Ao Nang Tuk-Tuk Club, gathered at the Krabi Provincial Transport Office to request the regulation of Grab vehicles in their area, citing significant losses in passenger traffic and rising conflicts between the two groups.
The tuk-tuk operators have been a longstanding fixture in Ao Nang, offering local transport services to tourists. However, the rise of Grab, a popular ride-hailing service, has had a major impact on their business. Many operators claim that Grab cars, some of which are allegedly operating illegally, have taken away much of their clientele. This competition has not only hurt their livelihoods but also led to violent confrontations between tuk-tuk drivers and Grab drivers, an issue that had not occurred in the past. Tuk-tuk drivers say that despite numerous complaints, the provincial transport office has not taken sufficient action to address the influx of illegal vehicles.
In response to the operators’ concerns, Mr. Thiwat Bamlai of the Krabi Transport Office met with the group to hear their grievances. The meeting, which was also attended by local police officers, resulted in an agreement to discuss the issue further and seek a resolution. Mr. Somkid emphasized that the drivers were forced to take this step after exhausting all other avenues of communication, and warned that if the matter is not addressed soon, they will escalate their efforts by petitioning the Krabi Provincial Governor.
Mr. Thiwat acknowledged the ongoing issues between tuk-tuks and Grab cars and assured that the transport office has been working to address the matter. He noted that Grab drivers had also raised concerns about illegal taxis in the area, and that the transport office has taken action by arresting and fining violators. Moving forward, he assured that strict enforcement measures would be implemented to prevent further conflicts over passengers and reduce instances of physical confrontations.
