Fuel shortage in Damascus amid price hike fear

Officials say there are no plans to increase fuel prices A fuel shortage has hit Damascus and neighbouring areas after drivers rushed to fuel stations amid reports that the government is set to increase prices.Petrol stations in the Syrian capital struggled to cope with the demand, with queues in some area stretching as long as four kilometres. A number of stations also left drivers disappointed, when they decided to close for business.
However, the general manager of the Syrian company responsible for the storage and distribution of petroleum products, Dr Nazim Khadaj, confirmed that gasoline is available, but the problem lies in transferring and delivering it to Damascus and the southern provinces.
Khadaj added that "gasoline is being delivered to gas stations right now" and as the week goes on, "the southern provinces will witness a better supply."
He also denies rumours that gasoline prices will be increased, adding that the price will remain 55 Syrian pounds per litre.
Furthermore, he noted that the ministries of Oil, Mineral Wealth, Domestic Trade and Consumer Protection are working together to tackle the manipulation in the oil prices and trafficking in the black market.