Tachileik Seeks Electricity from Laos Amid Thai Power Cut
The Thai government’s cessation of cross-border power and fuel supplies is significantly impacting Myanmar’s border communities, particularly in Tachileik, where residents are now turning to Laos for electricity.
Despite the intentional disruption targeting illegal operations in the region, sources indicate that criminal enterprises may have the means to procure alternative power sources, including generators.
On Wednesday, Thai authorities implemented a power cutoff affecting Myawaddy, Payathongzu, and Tachileik, responding to concerns from Chinese officials regarding the rise in call-center scams that threaten the safety of Chinese citizens.
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that this action disrupted 20 megawatts of electricity supply, noting that the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) collects approximately 600 million baht annually from this cross-border arrangement.
Mr. Anutin stated that electricity sales could resume if Myanmar agrees to prevent scam operations from accessing Thai power, but he refrained from confirming whether the cutoff would effectively dismantle these illicit groups.
Charin Thongsuk, the governor of Chiang Rai province, revealed that officials are increasing electricity imports from Laos to compensate for the cutoff, a process expected to take several days.
Local sources report that around 7,500 households, 65 temples, 45 schools, 15 military camps, and five hospitals in Tachileik have been impacted by the power shutdown. However, many residents had anticipated this disruption and had made preparations in advance.
Electricity officials disconnect power supply cables to Myawaddy as the cutoff takes effect.
In Tak province, adjacent to Myawaddy, cross-border commercial activities continue despite the halt in oil exports, as reported by Col. Natthakorn Rueabtip, commander of the Ratchamanu task force. Locals in Myawaddy are reportedly increasing their oil reserves amid the crisis.
Similarly, Kanchanaburi province authorities have restricted the export of oil and generators to Myanmar.
Reports indicate that the entertainment industry in Payathongzu has been severely affected by the power cutoff, prompting some workers to return home. A significant increase in diesel prices has been observed, rising from 35 baht to 60 baht per liter as residents rush to fuel stations.
Despite preparations with solar panels, the electricity cutoff has strained operations at government offices, hospitals, and schools. Meanwhile, Chinese-owned casinos and entertainment venues have managed to operate as usual due to their private generators.
Mobile phone services from Thailand remain unaffected in Payathongzu.
Buyers queue for fuel at a petrol station in Myawaddy amid the ongoing crisis.
