Western Jamaica remains in turmoil as fuel shortages persist in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which struck the region earlier this week. Long queues of motorists formed at the few operational gas stations, with many expressing frustration over the prolonged wait times and limited supply. At Flamingo Gas Station in Trelawny, drivers recounted their struggles to find fuel, with some traveling past multiple closed stations before reaching one with available stock. Nicholas, a motorist from Ironshore, shared his ordeal, stating he had already passed four stations without success. Anthony, another driver, lamented waiting nearly an hour with little progress. Station staff also voiced their exasperation, citing a lack of discipline among the growing crowds. Meanwhile, business owners like Jason Cummings, managing director of Jascum Solutions Limited, emphasized the critical need for fuel to sustain operations, particularly for essential services like airport repairs. Similar scenes unfolded in Montego Bay, where reopened stations faced overwhelming demand, leading to tense confrontations among residents. The crisis highlights the broader challenges faced by communities in western Jamaica as they strive to recover from the hurricane’s devastation. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz announced measures to address the fuel shortage, including police escorts for tankers and uninterrupted loading operations at Petrojam, the state-owned refinery, to ensure islandwide distribution.
Long lines, short tempers as fuel shortages grip western Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa
