Gas shortage in S Darfur leading to rising prices

13/03/2013 14:32

South Darfur is witnessing a “major” shortage in petroleum products which is leading to their soaring prices “when even available”, sources say. Witnesses attributed different reasons to the gas scarcity in the state. Firstly, it takes about 10 days for oil convoys to arrive in the area from Khartoum and secondly, traders are storing fuel which is worsening the current crisis.In addition, sources are demanding that the construction of the Western Inqaz road be accelerated and that the railway be rehabilitated, as this is a less expensive way of goods’ delivery to Darfur states.The price of a gallon of gasoline at gas stations boosted to 18.5 Sudanese pounds and a gallon of diesel now costs 15.5 pounds, while its prices at the black market can reach up to more than 30 pounds (4.20, 3.5 and 6.80 USD respectively).Photo: cars lining up for fuel in Nyala  (Radio Dabanga file)

South Darfur is witnessing a “major” shortage in petroleum products which is leading to their soaring prices “when even available”, sources say.

Witnesses attributed different reasons to the gas scarcity in the state. Firstly, it takes about 10 days for oil convoys to arrive in the area from Khartoum and secondly, traders are storing fuel which is worsening the current crisis.

In addition, sources are demanding that the construction of the Western Inqaz road be accelerated and that the railway be rehabilitated, as this is a less expensive way of goods’ delivery to Darfur states.

The price of a gallon of gasoline at gas stations boosted to 18.5 Sudanese pounds and a gallon of diesel now costs 15.5 pounds, while its prices at the black market can reach up to more than 30 pounds (4.20, 3.5 and 6.80 USD respectively).

Photo: cars lining up for fuel in Nyala  (Radio Dabanga file)