The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has dispelled social media reports that there is a looming fuel shortage in the country.
ERB Acting Manager Public Relations, Musonda Chibulu, has assured the public and stakeholders that the country has sufficient diesel stocks and that the authority is working to address the logistical challenges affecting petrol imports.
Mr. Chibulu said that diesel is imported both by pipeline and road, with approximately 2.8 million liters delivered daily, ensuring a steady supply at most retail sites.
He said that in contrast, petrol is entirely imported by road, and ongoing logistical challenges have led to delays in delivery, resulting in some retail outlets running out of stock.
“As of 23rd December 2024, out of 616 sites countrywide, 587 were selling diesel while 502 were selling petrol with 20 sites dry on both products,” said Mr. Chibulu in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
Mr. Chibulu said the logistical challenges being faced through the Zimbabwe route are due to the introduction of refundable transit taxes in that country which has resulted in transporters opting to use alternative routes through Chanida and Nakonde border points, resulting in extended transit times.
He said to reduce the transit time, ERB in collaboration with the Road Traffic and Safety Agency (RTSA) has temporarily relaxed the movement restrictions for Petroleum Road Tank Vehicles and extended the operating hours, beyond 18:00 hours to ensure a quicker turnaround time.
Mr. Chibulu said while ERB continues to actively monitor the situation to ensure timely intervention and availability of petroleum products on the market, motorists and the public are therefore advised against panic buying to avoid exacerbating the situation as efforts to restock sites that do not have petrol are ongoing.
By Margaret Mwanza
