The Western Cape Government has moved to reassure residents that there is sufficient fuel supply in the province, despite concerns linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is monitoring the situation alongside the Fuel Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA), Agri Western Cape (Agri WC), regional disaster management centres, the Department of Health and Wellness: Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Eskom.
Concerns have been raised within the agricultural sector, where some farmers are reportedly receiving only about 20% of their usual monthly diesel allocations.
According to Agri WC, the issue is most pronounced in the Garden Route and West Coast districts. The shortages are attributed to some suppliers withholding fuel rather than an overall lack of supply.
FIASA is working with Agri WC to identify suppliers who may be rationing fuel, amid claims that some are delaying deliveries in anticipation of possible price increases. Authorities have warned that such conduct could lead to legal consequences.
“There is no cause for concern. There is more than enough fuel in reserve. All suppliers must immediately release full fuel orders to all clients. We will not tolerate suppliers unethically withholding fuel while our agricultural sector is under pressure,” Premier Alan Winde said.
“Fuel is a critical resource for the agricultural sector, particularly as we head into the fruit-picking and winter grain planting season. This is a sector already under pressure as a result of foot-and-mouth disease. It is unacceptable that unnecessary fuel rationing now poses an additional stressor,” he added.
At this stage, other sectors, including Western Cape Government departments, have not been affected. The government says it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates where necessary.
Photo: Sourced
