July 1: Fuel finds its flow again

GOVT LIFTS CURBS | July 1: Fuel finds its flow again

- MPOST BUREAU

The government will lift restrictions on the sale of petrol and diesel to commercial and industrial consumers from July 1, easing emergency measures imposed to manage fuel supplies.

The move will also end the cap on the diesel quantity that can be sold to a single vehicle in a day at retail fuel stations, reflecting an improvement in the country’s fuel supply situation.

In an order dated June 29, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas rescinded its June 12 directive that had capped diesel sales to a single vehicle at 200 litres a day and barred industrial, commercial and institutional consumers from purchasing petrol and diesel from retail fuel stations.

The restrictions had been introduced to prevent local fuel shortages amid global supply disruptions.

“The temporary measures were considered necessary and expedient in the public interest to maintain supplies of motor spirit (petrol) and high speed diesel...and secure their equitable distribution and availability at fair prices,” the June 29 order said.

After a review of the prevailing supply situation of petroleum products in the country, the ministry said it is “satisfied” that it is no longer necessary in the public interest to continue with the June 12 order.