• The disruptions in supply of diesel are of great concern.
• They have an adverse effect on normal business operations.
• Some OMCs have been directed to engage TAZAMA to enhance their uplifts in order to meet the shortfall.
Energy Regulation Board (ERB) says it is concerned over the intermittent supply of diesel in selected parts of Southern province and Lusaka in the recent past.
ERB Public Relations Manager Kwali Mfuni disclosed to Money FM News that it has been observed that despite availability of diesel in the country, some selected retail sites in Livingstone, Choma, Monze, and some parts of Lusaka continue to experience shortages of the commodity.
Ms. Mfuni stated that the affected sites have been experiencing fuel challenges only in respect of diesel as supply of petrol has been consistent and stable.
She said ERB is closely working with all stakeholders including Tazama Pipelines Limited and the affected Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to monitor the situation.
“The disruptions in the supply of diesel are of great concern because they have an adverse effect on normal business operations and have potential to inconvenience the travelling public.”
“As a consequence, some OMCs have been directed to engage TAZAMA to enhance their uplifts in order to meet the shortfall in the affected areas and avert a possible escalation of the current challenges,” Ms. Mfuni said.
She added that the ERB has also effected a waiver on the restriction of movement of fuel tankers with effect from 29th April 2021, until further notice.
“This measure entails the suspension of clause 6.2.2(g) of the Zambian Standard ZS 372: Transportation of Petroleum products and operational requirements for Road Tank Vehicles-code of practice which prohibits road tank vehicles from moving between 18:00 hours and 06:00 hours. This action has been taken in order to facilitate for prompt restoration of normal diesel supply particularly in the affected areas,” she added.
Ms. Mfuni advised members of the public and motorists in the affected areas to avoid panic buying of fuel as the measures being put in place shall ensure restoration of normal diesel supply within the shortest possible time.
