Lakes state authorities ban fuel sale on streets

November 13, 2015 (RUMBEK) – Authorities in South Sudan’s Lakes state have cautioned against selling fuel on streets and using petrol generators in the capital, Rumbek.

“[A fine of] 500SSP will be imposed on any person who violates the order and all fuel or petrol you are selling will be seized without compensation,” partly reads the order.

The director of the fire brigade, Chol Mayar Mayuen said it was extremely difficult to control outbreaks resulting from a generator that has caught fire.

“All those generators installed near public places need relocation to places that are distant from people, fuel station managers should observe public safety. Those selling petrol or fuel at roadside should stop it immediately because it is a high risk – there are no spaces for fire fighters to intervene if fire erupted because of lack of fire fighters and equipment,” stressed Chol.

He however urged all members of the fire brigade to observe their duties and engage the civil population to respect the rules of law within the state, saying “We are not part of tribal conflict in the state – our duty is to fight fire – we are civil defense forces”.

The Lakes state capital currently has nine fuel stations which are fully in operation.

(ST)