Pemba, Mozambique Faces Critical Fuel Shortage Amid Infrastructure Collapse

Pemba, Mozambique, faces a fuel shortage caused by the Mecuburi bridge collapse due to Tropical Cyclone Jude. This situation has led to long queues, high prices, and significant economic impacts on public transport and commerce. Local drivers express frustrations over the scarcity and compare prices to neighboring Malawi.

Pemba, a city in Mozambique, is currently grappling with a significant fuel shortage following the collapse of the Mecuburi bridge in Nampula province. This destruction, attributed to heavy rains from Tropical Cyclone Jude, has severed the main transportation route between Pemba and Nampula, complicating the delivery of essential goods, particularly fuel.

The repercussions of this fuel scarcity are visible at gas stations in Pemba, where long lines and widespread frustration are evident. Drivers have reported immense difficulties in securing fuel, and many have criticized the increasing prices. Gabriel Buchir, a local driver, lamented, “We have been without fuel at the pumps for three days now,” attributing the issue to the damaged bridge and noting that the prices have climbed significantly.

Price surges in the informal market have further exacerbated the situation, burdening taxi drivers and other individuals reliant on fuel. Taxi driver Francisco André expressed his concern regarding the high costs in Mozambique compared to Malawi, asserting, “How is it possible that a country with fuel production basins has such high prices? This is detrimental to the entire population of Cabo Delgado and Mozambique.”

Ernesto Tomás, another driver, pointed out that the bridge’s destruction has severely hindered fuel transportation, making tanker trucks unable to pass. He mentioned the alternative of sea transport and described how he felt the direct impact of the situation in his daily travel costs.

This ongoing fuel crisis is adversely impacting Pemba’s local economy, hindering public transport, commerce, and overall mobility. Meanwhile, residents endure the uncertainty and await improvements to the dire situation affecting their lives.

In summary, Pemba is experiencing a significant fuel shortage due to the collapse of the Mecuburi bridge, which has disrupted essential transport routes and driven up fuel prices. Local drivers express their frustration over both the scarcity and inflated costs, while the entire community is feeling the adverse economic effects. The situation remains precarious as citizens hope for a resolution to the ongoing crisis.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com