Fuel shortages in Gauteng
Over 100 filling stations were starting to run dry due to the closure of a major refinery for scheduled maintenance.
ALBERTON — Gauteng motorists can expect a fuel shortage this week following the temporary shutdown of a major refinery for scheduled maintenance.
The Fuel Retailers Association (FRA) told The Citizen, a sister newspaper, that the shortage could continue this week as over 100 filling stations were starting to run dry.
BP stations were hit hardest with products such as diesel, Unleaded 93 and 95 being in short supply.
Petrol pumps reportedly started running dry on Saturday, August 8, prompting motorists to queue at filling stations, especially in the townships.
After contacting several stations, the RECORD learned that Alberton service stations are still fully functional.
By Tuesday afternoon, all the BP filling stations that the RECORD contacted still had fuel.Arthur Golding, BP Newmarket manager, said they are fortunate to still have fuel, but understand that other areas in Johannesburg, such as in Bedfordview, are without fuel.
Michelle Todd, BP Randhart manager, said they too have not been affected yet.
Two filling stations reported that they had a shortage of diesel over the weekend, but that their diesel stock was quickly topped-up.
“We waited nine hours for diesel as there was a bit of a delay in the delivery of diesel stock, but we are fine now,” said Derrick Allison, owner of the Verwoerd Park Service Station.
Dips Naik, owner of the Engen Brackenview Service Station, said they too waited a few hours for diesel stock to be delivered.
“Overall we are still doing okay as we have some fuel reserves and are fortunate too not be affected that much at this stage.”
Reggie Sibiya, FRA Chief Executive officer said the refinery was working to fix the disruptions and added that there was not enough storage inland when there is a crisis of this nature.
The RECORD has contacted Karen Byamugisha BP’s spokesperson, who said she is awaiting the latest information about the fuel shortage and will provide comment as soon as she has this.
• Are you affected? Do you know of any Alberton filling stations that went dry? Leave us a comment in the comment section below the article.
