Restrictions on diesel sales at select filling stations in Johannesburg have raised concerns about fuel availability, despite government assurances that there is no nationwide shortage.
In Cape Town, many residents have refueled their vehicles with petrol ahead of the official price increase.
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has asserted that South Africa has sufficient fuel, stating that any interruptions are localised and short-lived.
Nevertheless, global instability, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, is raising concerns about potential price hikes.
Energy analyst Redge Nkosi said the rush by residents to purchase fuel is understandable. He noted that the conflict has pushed oil prices above $100 (approximately R1,713.88) per barrel.
“Since the conflict in the Middle East, prices for petrol, diesel, and other fuels will automatically rise unless there’s an immediate halt to the war in the Middle East,” said Nkosi.
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Photo: VOCfm
