Gas stations close due to lack of fuel in Punta Arenas
PUNTA ARENAS.- According to information received from Radio Polar, fuel service stations have closed their doors due to a lack of gasoline and diesel in Punta Arenas.
The shortage is a result of the trucker strike, which has halted stock replenishments. Demand surged after the announcement was released predicting a rise in fuel prices today, further aggravating the situation.
A similar scenario has been reported in other regions of the country. Problems have risen in the cities of Iquique, La Serena, San Felipe, Casablanca and Rancagua, among others, where some gas stations have completely run out of fuel or have been left with only diesel.
Yesterday, the predicament generated long lines of vehicles at service stations where motorists were attempting to stock up on fuel.
According to the National Oil Company (ENAP), the price of gasoline (which is reviewed on a weekly basis and compared to international oil prices) will go up by 36 pesos per liter today – making for the highest weekly increase in seven years according to the company’s records.
Original Source : http://www.emol.com/noticias/ingles/detalle/detallenoticias.asp?idnoticia=307339
