KUALA LUMPUR - Thousands of motorists from Myanmar crossed into the Thai border town of Mae Sot to refuel their vehicles after a sharp increase in petrol prices in their country.

Heavy traffic was reported at the 1st Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge at Rim Moei on Tuesday as passenger vans and private cars from Myawaddy in Karen State queued for hours at petrol stations in Thailand.

The surge also came as Thai residents and transport operators rushed to fill their tanks amid fears of further price increases linked to the growing Middle East crisis.

Under Thailand’s ‘Three Cuts’ security policy, the government bans the bulk export of fuel to Myanmar to prevent it from being used by online scam groups for power generation.

However, private citizens are still allowed to cross the border to refuel their personal vehicles, which has caused congestion at petrol stations in Mae Sot.

The rush for fuel has also caused disruptions in other parts of Thailand, including the tourist area of Khao Lak in Phang Nga, where queues at petrol stations stretched more than 500 metres along the main Phetkasem Road.

Some residents were also seen bringing plastic containers to store extra fuel at home.

“Deliveries from central depots are continuing as scheduled. There is no evidence of a shortage, and we urge customers not to panic,” One petrol station owner said.

The Thai government said the country currently has fuel reserves that can last for about 61 days of national use.

Authorities are also reviewing plans to limit some oil exports to ensure enough supply for domestic needs.

Energy officials are closely monitoring the Middle East situation around the clock to decide if further measures are needed.

Local authorities have also warned the public not to panic buy fuel, saying hoarding could strain the supply system and worsen traffic congestion.

They also urged residents to rely on verified official information to prevent unnecessary panic and market instability.