EWURA suspends two petrol stations over hoarding fuel

TANZANIA: THE Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) has suspended two petrol stations for a period of six months over hoarding of fuel and violating regulations and their licences’ requirements.

The suspended stations are Gapco Tanzania Limited Moshi service station and Anwar Saleh Bakhamis T/A serious oil petrol station.

Speaking to journalists on Friday, EWURA’s Communication and Public Relations Manager Titus Kaguo said after closing down the two stations, it now makes a total of 11 petrol stations that the authority suspended between July and August this year and investigations were still ongoing on those petrol stations.

Mr Kaguo said according to the Petroleum Act, Chapter 392, the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority is tasked with regulating fuel business to ensure a continuous fuel supply in the country.

He warned all owners of petrol stations in the country to comply with the law and stop the pursuit of illegal commercial interests.

“EWURA is warning the owners of petrol stations that the government is monitoring this issue closely through its various entities,” he said.

However, Mr Kaguo urged fuel traders and storage facilities owners to remember that licences are granted for the provision of services, not for hoarding fuel or other purposes.

EWURA’s purpose is to enhance services for Tanzanians and there are procedures and regulations in place that define rights and responsibilities.