The National Petroleum Distribution Company, 'Aجيل', has assured that fuel supplies are available at numerous stations across Tunisia, despite a strike by truck drivers. The company's General Manager, Khalid Al-Battin, stated that fuel is available in various types, and citizens are urged to avoid panic buying. The strike, which began on Wednesday, is being carried out by truck drivers who are protesting issues related to social coverage, wages, and outstanding benefits.

According to Al-Battin, some truck drivers have chosen not to participate in the strike and are working normally. These drivers have been loading fuel from Rades and Sfax and are currently on their way to distribute it to various stations across the country. The company has ensured their safe transportation by providing security escorts. Al-Battin emphasized that the strike will not impact the fuel supply, but it is essential to resolve the issues faced by the truck drivers to prevent such actions in the future.

The strike is a result of disputes between the truck drivers and the owners of fuel transportation companies. Al-Battin noted that the drivers are seeking better working conditions, including improved social coverage, higher wages, and payment of outstanding benefits. The situation has led to concerns about the potential impact on fuel supplies, but 'Aجيل' has assured that the necessary measures are being taken to mitigate any effects.

In related news, a fuel-laden ship arrived in Tunisia on Tuesday, and another is expected to arrive on Wednesday. Al-Battin stressed that the country's petroleum reserves are sufficient, but rapid consumption by citizens could lead to shortages at some stations. He urged citizens to avoid panic buying and to consume fuel responsibly.

The Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energy has not made an official statement on the strike, but 'Aجيل' has called for urgent intervention from the government to resolve the issues faced by the truck drivers. The company has emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to prevent further disruptions to fuel supplies.

The strike has raised concerns about the potential impact on the country's economy, particularly the transportation sector. Tunisia relies heavily on fuel imports, and any disruption to supplies could have significant consequences. The government has been urged to take swift action to resolve the crisis and prevent further strikes.

Al-Battin has appealed to citizens to remain calm and to avoid panic buying, assuring them that 'Aجيل' is working to ensure a stable fuel supply. He emphasized that the company's primary goal is to provide fuel to citizens and to maintain the smooth operation of the country's economy.

Key points

  • The strike by truck drivers in Tunisia is primarily over issues related to social coverage, wages, and outstanding benefits.
  • A fuel-laden ship arrived in Tunisia on Tuesday, and another is expected to arrive on Wednesday.
  • The country's petroleum reserves are sufficient, but rapid consumption by citizens could lead to shortages at some stations.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.