Hat yai: The Ministry of Energy has taken proactive measures to reassure oil consumers by inspecting fuel quality in the aftermath of recent flooding in Hat Yai. Energy Minister Atthapol Rerkpiboon, along with key officials, visited the area to conduct thorough fuel quality checks at affected service stations.
According to Thai News Agency, Atthapol, accompanied by Sarawut Kaewtathip, Director-General of the Department of Energy Business (DEB), and Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, Deputy Permanent Secretary and spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy, led a team of expert engineers to inspect the fuel quality at the PTT Station on Nuan Kaew Uthit Road. This initiative aims to boost consumer confidence and prevent potential engine damage due to fuel contamination.
The inspections involved a Mobile Lab conducting comprehensive tests on fuel samples, examining parameters such as color, turbidity, cetane index, and sulfur content. The results confirmed that the fuel quality met all standards, showing no signs of water or foreign matter contamination. This reassurance comes despite the station being forced to close for over two weeks due to severe flooding that reached nearly a meter in depth.
The Ministry's efforts extend to 521 petrol stations across nine southern provinces, many of which experienced temporary closures due to floodwaters. Over 400 stations have resumed operations, while around 80 are still under restoration. In Hat Yai District, 20 stations are being expedited for restoration, with full service anticipated to resume next week. The Ministry has confirmed that there are no fuel shortages, thanks to robust construction standards and safety measures such as underground fuel tanks and drainage systems.
Beyond fuel quality inspections, the Minister of Energy also visited Prince of Songkla University to provide aid to disaster victims and workers. Relief efforts included the distribution of 300 relief bags, 38,000 bottles of drinking water, and gas cards valued at 500,000 baht for PSU Hospital, 300,000 baht for Hat Yai Hospital, and 100,000 baht for the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization. These contributions aim to support ongoing recovery missions and ensure a swift return to normalcy in the affected regions.