By Sue-Ann Wayow
COLLAPSING roads due to the recent bad weather have caused the Trinidad & Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP) to seek alternative routes and hire smaller transport vehicles.
NP in a media statement on Monday, assured residents in rural communities that fuel distribution has resumed to key areas, in spite of the weather-related damage to roads and infrastructure.
NP admitted that the company’s ability to deliver fuel to service stations in rural communities was challenged by localised flooding caused by heavy rainfall, which culminated in undermining roads and damaging infrastructure.
In its proactive response on November 21, NP first started exploring alternative routes where possible, which was confirmed on Sunday, NP stated.
“Additionally, the company engaged the services of smaller single-discharge tanker units (operating at partial capacity due to weight restrictions), who together with the guidance of a spotter/lorryman would assist the driver with roadway visibility and maintaining a clear line of sight as they traverse key areas,” the company said.
NP stated less than five per cent of NP’s network was impacted, with Toco being the only area where confirmation of accessibility for tankers carrying liquid fuels, is still outstanding.
Service Stations originally impacted have since received a supply of fuel and an update would be provided subsequently.
Additionally, NP conducted an assessment in collaboration with the Programme for Upgrading Road Efficiency (PURE) unit of the Ministry of Works and Transport and it was determined that full accessibility has been restored to the roadway at Chatham for NP vehicles to traverse and deliver fuel.
NP stated, “We will continue to meet the fuel distribution needs of the country in a timely manner and ensure the reliable and continuous supply of liquid fuels, aviation fuel and LPG /cooking gas to the local market.”
