‘Social order is at risk’: SA warned about MAJOR fuel shortage

An alert has been issued by the Shadow Energy Minister this week, after he was made aware of just how low South Africa’s refined fuel stocks are currently running. According to Kevin Mileham, industry chiefs are now ‘gravely concerned’ about a possible SHORTAGE.

A fuel shortage in South Africa? It may be closer than you think

It has been 17 years since South Africa experienced a significant fuel shortage. A Commission of Inquiry was held, and recommended actions were put forward. However, very few steps have been taken in this regard – and history may be on the brink of repeating itself.

The recent Transnet strike has been devastating for our transport networks. Last month, Cape Town International Airport narrowly avoided running out of the fuel it had in reserve. With Eskom also burning through diesel like there’s no tomorrow, a very serious crisis is now emerging.

Mileham claims to have been briefed ‘in no uncertain terms’ that a fuel shortage is now entirely possible in Mzansi, should there be any more major disruptions to the refined supply. The DA representative fears that this could directly threaten ‘the social order of South Africa’.

‘Social order at risk’ if SA runs out of refined supply

Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has been compelled to answer an urgent question on the matter, in order to clarify just how close we are to another devastating fuel shortage. Mileham and the DA are also worried about the pressure this fiasco is putting on our domestic supply chains.

“Since 2005, the ANC government has failed to implement the strategic refined fuel reserves recommendation, placing the country at severe risk of fuel shortages should there be a major disruption in the fuel supply chain.”

“Fuel industry bosses are now warning that South Africa ‘is perilously close to a major fuel supply crisis’ – due to the unavailability of refined fuel stocks. Any disruptions to the supply of refined liquid fuel will have far reaching consequences to the economy and social order.”

“The immediate impact will be the upending of supply chains, which will severely constrain productivity in the economy. Consumers could potentially face a food supply crisis as food wholesalers and distributors straggle to transport food stocks where they are needed.” | Kevin Mileham