Fuel fears allayed

“In November, we pumped over 111 million litres, while the capacity is 120 million litres per month.
“In fact, we want to increase that capacity to 180 million monthly while actively looking at establishing a second pipeline as infrastructure development.”
Minister Mangoma said in 2009, 573 million litres of fuel were imported while about 697 million litres were brought in the following year.
From January to November this year, about 995 million litres had been imported.
He said in 2009, about 379 million litres were brought through the pipeline, while about 194 million litres came by road.
In 2010, about 445 million litres came through the pipeline and about 255 million litres by road.
Minister Mangoma said this year, about 909 million litres had come through the pipeline whereas about 85 million came by road.
He said it was important for fuel dealers to maintain the current price regime.
“The retailers have been very reasonable judging by their prices so far. The prices have not been outrageous, but it is important that they maintain those prices and avoid being greedy.”
A snap survey at service stations in Harare yesterday revealed that fuel was readily available and the pump price was pegged at an average of US$1,30 for diesel and US$1,40 for petrol.
A fuel dealer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said prices will remain stable for sometime because there have been no extra costs.