Bali fuel shortage causes supply disruptions and driver selectivity

Bali is experiencing a significant fuel shortage triggered by supply chain disruptions. A delayed fuel tanker, caused by high seas and a faulty anchor cable, prevented docking for 15 hours, exhausting the island's limited reserves which typically only last a few days to a week.

The crisis has led to widespread panic buying and illegal hoarding. Individuals are reportedly reselling fuel in plastic bottles via social media and in tourist areas like Canggu at significantly inflated prices.

Ride-hailing drivers are responding to the shortage by becoming highly selective with passengers. Due to the necessity of spending several hours in gasoline queues, drivers are prioritizing short-distance trips to minimize fuel consumption. Some drivers report refusing requests beyond 4 kilometers to maintain viable earnings, as the time required to refuel has increased their operational burdens significantly.