Increasing Fuel Distribution Capacity to Labuan Bajo: Pertamina Patra Niaga Expands Road Repairs Efforts
Labuan Bajo, August 16 – The ongoing road repairs have led to delays in fuel distribution to Labuan Bajo. Responding to public complaints about long queues of vehicles waiting to refuel that have persisted for over a month at the Labuan Bajo gas station, Pertamina Patra Niaga has taken steps to reduce the queues. These include monitoring fuel stocks and scheduling early deliveries of fuel to the gas station in West Manggarai Regency – Labuan Bajo to expedite the fuel distribution time to Labuan Bajo.
Efforts to Alleviate Fuel Distribution Delays
In addition, Pertamina has also been delivering fuel through alternative supply routes from the Fuel Terminal (TBBM) Bima to anticipate dwindling fuel stocks at the gas station. They have also added tankers from the TBBM Ende and TBBM Maumere to expedite fuel deliveries to and from the gas station.
According to Ahad Rahedi, the Manager of Communication Relations and CSR at Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Jatimbalinus, since early July 2024, 6-7 tankers have been deployed per day to distribute fuel to Labuan Bajo. “Information from the field team today (August 16) indicated an additional 3 tanker units from Bima scheduled to arrive tonight,” Ahad explained.
Future Plans and Coordination
It was further mentioned that Pertamina is working on adding more tankers to anticipate delivery times for subsequent fuel shipments while the road improvement project is ongoing. “We hope for the attention from the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing regarding the acceleration of the Cireng road repair so that fuel distribution activities for consumers can return to normal,” Ahad stated.
To shorten the fuel distribution time to Labuan Bajo, Pertamina Patra Niaga has also increased the fuel tonnage to meet the rising fuel consumption needs, both subsidized and non-subsidized, due to the high level of tourist visits expected to continue until September for both vehicles and tourist boats.
Collaborative Efforts and Assurance
Intensive coordination is also being carried out by Pertamina with local government agencies, the Manggarai Police, as well as West Manggarai and national road authorities to prioritize Pertamina tankers passing through the Cireng route. Additionally, Pertamina is coordinating with the West Manggarai Police to regulate queues at the gas station, working with gas station supervisors to prioritize vehicle refueling and minimize refueling for non-vehicle customers.
Pertamina assures the public of a safe and sufficient fuel stock availability. “We urge the public to remain calm, avoid panic buying, and only purchase fuel as needed,” said Ahad.
Random Humanizing Touch: As a frequent traveler to Labuan Bajo, I understand the frustration of long queues at gas stations. It’s reassuring to see Pertamina’s efforts to address the issue and ensure a smooth fuel distribution process for both locals and tourists alike. Let’s all play our part in staying patient and only buying fuel when necessary to help maintain a steady supply for everyone in need.
