Prepare for massive fuel hike this week

MOTORISTS may have dodged an increase in the General Fuel Levy, but many are still set to feel the pinch of a massive fuel hike at midnight (Wednesday).

The petrol price is expected to increase by R1.21 per litre, while diesel is forecast to hike by R1.18 per litre.

This month’s fuel price hike will breach the R24/litre mark for petrol in inland areas and see it rise to just short of this mark at the coast.

This expected fuel hike follows last week’s increase in toll fees, with a return trip from Richards Bay to Durban now costing motorists R182 in tolls alone.

The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) announced last month that as of 1 March, light motor vehicles will pay R59 at the mainline Mtunzini toll, R17.50 at Mvoti Plaza and R14.50 at oThongathi.

The double blow for motorists will, however, be offset by Treasury’s decision not to increase the General Fuel Levy (GFL), or the Road Accident Fund levy (RAF).

The Automobile Association (AA) said the move not to increase the levies is good news for already cash-strapped consumers.

“These levies are traditionally increased in February and implemented in April, but the minister of finance heeded calls by the AA and in his February Budget Speech indicated this would not happen this year.

“Although not a saving as such, any increases would have added additional pressure to fuel prices, and we again welcome his decision not to increase these rates for 2024,” concluded the AA.

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