Motorists urged not to panic-buy fuel, as there are no shortages in the short term - DMPR
“The Department and Fuels Industry Association wish to firmly reiterate that South Africa’s fuel supply remains stable in the immediate term, and there is no basis for panic-buying".
The South African Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) says it has noted with concern statements and messages on social media platforms, encouraging members of the public to rush to filling stations because of a perceived fuel shortage and anticipated fuel price increases.
DMPR says calls for the public to rush to the pumps are irresponsible and they place undue pressure on supply systems, congestion at service stations, and anxiety among consumers, it said in a statement released on Friday.
“The Department urges all organisations, public representatives, commentators and social media users to act responsibly and to refrain from spreading unverified or speculative claims regarding fuel supply and fuel price developments.
“Members of the public are encouraged to continue purchasing fuel in the normal course and to rely on official government communication for accurate and verified information”.
The DMPR concedes, however, that while there may be isolated localised logistical challenges affecting the movement or availability of fuel in certain areas, it points out that these are operational in nature and do not constitute a national supply shortage.
These issues are being actively managed through established industry and regulatory channels, it says.
“It is therefore incorrect and misleading to link such isolated domestic logistical matters to broader geopolitical developments. Such claims risk creating unnecessary alarm and confusion among the public.
“The Department and Fuels Industry Association wish to firmly reiterate that South Africa’s fuel supply remains stable in the immediate term, and there is no basis for panic-buying.
“The Department and the Fuels Industry Association will continue to monitor the situation closely and will communicate any confirmed developments through official channels,” it says.
Consumers who experience fuel-related challenges or wish to lodge complaints are encouraged to report these to fuel.complaints@dmpr.gov.za, enabling the department’s inspectors to respond and intervene where necessary.
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