Nakhon phanom: A prominent temple in northeastern Thailand has suspended cremation services due to a regional fuel shortage, as local gas stations implement strict rationing measures. Wat Mahathat, a major religious site in Nakhon Phanom, announced a temporary closure of its crematorium after being unable to secure enough diesel to operate its pollution-free furnace system.

According to Thai News Agency, each cremation requires approximately 90 liters of fuel, costing about 3,000 THB. Local gas stations have capped individual purchases at 500 THB and refused to sell fuel in containers or gallon drums. These restrictions prevent the temple from refilling its onsite storage tanks, making it impossible to guarantee enough fuel for funeral rites.

Phra Khru Samu Kittichai Sukwattano, the temple's vice-abbot, stated that the crisis heavily impacts the destitute and unclaimed bodies. The temple typically assists with at least 10 charity cremations per month. He appealed for an exemption to allow the temple to purchase fuel in containers for these final rites.