Transport vessels struggle to reach Phu Quy Island due to bad weather. Photo by Nhandan.
On January 5, many residents of Phu Quy Special Zone found petrol stations closed, forcing some to push their vehicles after running out of fuel.
The island has three privately run petrol stations. Two days earlier, fuel was sold on a limited basis, with customers restricted to one or two litres each. By Monday morning, all stations had suspended sales after depleting their reserves.
Le Hong Loi, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Phu Quy Special Zone, said all petrol reserves had been exhausted as rough seas prevented fuel tankers from reaching the island.
Off the coast of Phu Quy, strong northeast winds of level 6-7, gusting to level 8, have created waves of 3-5 metres, making sea conditions extremely dangerous. Fuel transport vessels are only permitted to depart when winds fall below level 7.
Local authorities have urged relevant agencies to expedite supply arrangements to restore fuel deliveries and ensure daily life on the island is not disrupted.
Located 56 nautical miles offshore, Phu Quy Special Zone covers more than 16 square kilometres and is home to over 32,000 residents. Fuel supply disruptions are common during periods of strong winds and high waves, particularly toward the end of the year and the beginning of the new year, when transport vessels struggle to reach the island.
