DESPITE official assurances that Vanuatu faces no imminent fuel shortage or price hike, residents and businesses in Port Vila are increasingly stockpiling fuel.
This has led to a shortage of storage containers and a rush on service stations.
Paradise Gas Limited has reportedly run out of the metal drums typically used for fuel storage. These empty drums, priced at VUV 22,000 each ($USD200), are being purchased by private companies and government entities trying to stockpile fuel.
In one instance, an expatriate reportedly purchased fuel and sent it to Eromanga for storage. Meanwhile, requests have been made to dispatch an additional 100 tanks to Santo.
A truck was seen making two trips to the Korman Stadium fuel station to fill six drums with diesel. At the Dedok station in Port Vila town, a local man was observed filling plastic containers with diesel bound for Pentecost Island.
Reports also indicate that shipments of diesel and petrol have already been dispatched to other islands.
The growing concern is not limited to the mainland. Reports of hoarding have also been received from outer islands…
Authorities have reiterated that there is no expected fuel shortage or price increase for at least the next three months. However, the stockpiling trend continues, with many people seeking to fill containers at service stations.
Source: VBTC