Fuel rationing concerns grow as Cape Town motorists report 35-litre limits

Motorists report fuel limits at Cape Town pumps despite assurances of no national shortage. A Durbanville woman’s attempt to fill her tank is fuelling concern across Cape Town, after she says she was told she could only buy 35 litres of petrol, despite government assurances that there is no national fuel shortage. Her experience comes as Western Cape PremierAlan Windehas warned of possible fuel hoarding and called for urgent national intervention.

“This is unethical. I implore suppliers to continue providing fuel for their clients. Withholding supply places the economy and livelihoods at great risk,” Winde said.

Faranaaz Brown said she was left confused when a petrol attendant informed her of the limit, allegedly imposed by the station owner. “I felt very sorry for the petrol attendant… he was very apologetic,” she said. Brown said she initially thought she had missed a major development, prompting her to phone her husband, who suggested the restriction could be linked to anticipated fuel price increases and possible stock withholding.

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What began as a single encounter quickly escalated online. Brown said her initial post has since drawn more than 450 comments, with users from across Cape Town and other parts of the country claiming they had experienced similar limits at petrol stations. “I know this is a hot-button topic right now… People are stressed and emotions are high,” she said.

The concerns come as global oil markets react to tensions in the Middle East, fuelling fears of price increases rather than immediate supply shortages. Winde had earlier, on March 23, sought to reassure residents that there was sufficient fuel available in the province.

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