Bangkok Taxi Drivers Threaten Airport Blockade Over Grab Access
BANGKOK — Bangkok’s taxi drivers are threatening major disruptions, including a blockade of Suvarnabhumi Airport and Government House, unless the government revokes new policies granting Grab official access to airport pick-up zones.
On Tuesday, May 21, more than 50 irate cab drivers gathered outside Gate 5 of Government House, decrying what they describe as government favoritism toward ride-hailing giant Grab. The protest was led by Worapol Kamkhuntod, head of the Association of Professional Drivers of Public Taxi Vehicles.
“If the government chooses Grab, it’s treason,” Worapol declared. “Grab is not a Thai company. Why are they getting all the benefits while we suffer?”
The protesters are demanding that Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit immediately repeal two ministerial regulations — one legalizing small hire vehicles and another permitting e-hailing services like Grab to operate officially.
The flashpoint for the unrest is the government’s decision to allow Grab to establish official pick-up points at Suvarnabhumi Airport, a move traditional taxi drivers say is gutting their livelihoods.
“Airports are the windows to our country,” said Worapol. “When tourists get scammed or have bad experiences, taxi drivers are always blamed, even if it’s not us. It ruins our reputation.”
The group has vowed to escalate their protest into a full-scale blockade if the government does not act swiftly to address their grievances, raising the specter of major disruptions to both air travel and central government operations.
