The Automobile Association of South Africa has warned local motorists that an industrial strike is expected to hit the country’s fuel reserves.
The industrial action by CEPPAWU started early on Thursday July 28.
The AA put out a press statement advising all motorists to “be aware” of the planned action, and to “take the necessary steps to ensure they have fuel”.
“It is our understanding that the strike will affect all refineries and depots of petroleum companies. This strike does not include petrol pump attendants, but will start to impact motorists once the pumps at petrol stations start to run dry,” the Association said.
Accordingly, the AA advised motorists to ensure they top up their fuel tanks as “regularly as reasonably possible”. In addition, the AA said motorists should avoid taking unnecessary journeys, as well as reducing stop-start driving, to cut down on fuel use.
“Driving with an air-conditioner on, speeding, and driving in peak-hour traffic will consume fuel quicker. We therefore advise motorists to adjust their driving patterns as far as possible to ensure that the fuel in their tanks lasts that bit longer,” the AA said.
At this stage, it is unclear how long the industrial action will last.