Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard2
Published on 2024-03-26 11:36:46
Drivers in urban areas of the Amhara region are currently facing a severe fuel shortage, accompanied by skyrocketing prices within the black market, which is severely impacting their ability to move around, as reported by Addis Standard. According to reports from Bahir Dar, the regional capital of Amhara, drivers are experiencing long queues at fuel stations every morning, only to find out that most stations do not have fuel supplies. This situation has forced heavy truck drivers to wait overnight or even longer periods to refuel when limited gasoline is available.
Taxi drivers are also resorting to the black market due to the scarcity of fuel in official channels, where prices are exorbitantly high. In a recent report by DW, a taxi driver in Bahir Dar mentioned that the cost of two liters of diesel in the illicit market exceeds 350 birr, compared to the standard price of 77 birr per liter. The driver blamed the regional authorities for failing to curb illegal fuel sales, which he believes are contributing to the shortage and high prices.
On the other hand, Ibrahim Mohammed, the head of the Amhara Regional Trade and Market Development Office, acknowledged the challenges in fuel distribution but mentioned that efforts are underway to address the supply issues and crack down on illicit activities. He revealed that out of over 280 fuel stations in the region, 253 are operational. However, some drivers claim that fuel stations are deliberately limiting the operation of fuel pumps to sustain queues, making it difficult for drivers to access fuel.
The surge in fuel prices has led to significant challenges for taxi drivers, with fares for short distances doubling from 5 birr to 10 birr. This has made it increasingly difficult for drivers to sustain their operations under the current circumstances. In Debre Birhan, another city in the Amhara region, a taxi operator reported a complete absence of gasoline, making it almost impossible to procure diesel in the past few days.
The fuel shortage and soaring prices of commodities are the latest issues affecting civilians in the region, which has been at the center of an ongoing conflict involving government forces and armed groups since August 2023. The destruction of social and economic institutions due to the conflict has resulted in losses of property worth over 15 billion birr. Despite claims from local authorities about having the situation under control, renewed hostilities have been reported in various zones, with roads being blocked off and intense battles occurring in multiple areas.
In conclusion, the fuel shortage in the Amhara region is exacerbating the challenges faced by drivers, especially taxi operators, who are struggling to access fuel and cope with the high prices. Efforts are being made to address the supply issues and curb illegal activities, but the situation remains dire for drivers in the region.
Read the original article on Addis Standard
