GEORGE NEWS - Motorists flocked to petrol stations on Tuesday during evening peak hour to fill up at the old fuel price before the latest increase of 36c per litre came into force at midnight.

The price of petrol on the coast is now R13,91 per litre for 93 grade and R13,95 for 95 grade. This is an increase of 75c per litre since the beginning of January this year, a continually weaker rand being the cause, according to the National Energy Fund.

Another hike is looming on 4 April when the increase in the fuel levy and contribution to the road accident fund, announced by Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan in his budget, will add another 20c to the price, pushing it through the R14 barrier on the coast.

On the Reef, the price has already jumped over this notch with the latest increase and now stands at R14,11 (93 grade) and R14,31 (95 grade).

The diesel price increased by 27c (0,05% sulphur) to R13,12 (on the coast).

Increases in the price of food and other consumer goods can be expected and with the Reserve Bank also having raised interest rates in January, consumers' spending power is under increasing pressure. The George Herald approached a few motorists to find out how they feel about the fuel increase.


Grandt Holtzhausen, a student at NMMU who lives in George, says the increase is taking another chunk out of his already tight budget. He drives to Saasveld and back every day. "I have tried starting a riding club with other students, but it does not always work as our lecture times differ too much." Petrol attendant at Total Courtenay fuel station, Makhaya Lumko, filled up the tank.


Doreen Crous, a pensioner, says she fortunately does not drive a lot. "I drive mostly in town. I cannot really afford to visit surrounding areas." She appreciates opportunities to drive out with other members of the SA Association of Retired Persons during their outings in the area when lifts are usually organised. Petrol attendant at Total Courtenay, Advocate Gova, served Doreen.


"I cannot afford it anymore!" says Tarina Wolmarans. She and her boyfriend, Shaun Pritchard (next to her), share their trips to and from work. "We live near one another, which makes it easier." She is looking forward to the future public bus service in George.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: ALIDA DE BEER, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST

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