By Shaffie A Mtambo
The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has taken drastic measures against four fuel service stations found guilty of serious regulatory violations. ENGEN Chiringa, MOUNT MERU Dunduzu 2, MOUNT MERU Nathenje, and SIMSO Mzuzu Service Stations have been directed to suspend their operations until further notice.
The decision follows complaints and investigations that revealed the stations were selling fuel in jerry cans and drums, a practice prohibited under the Liquid Fuels and Gas Act and MERA regulations. Despite previous warnings, the stations continued to flout the rules, denying the public equitable access to fuel and posing risks to safety and the environment.
MERA’s swift action aims to ensure that fuel service stations operate within the bounds of the law. The regulator has also instructed MOUNT MERU, SIMSO OIL, and VIVO Energy Malawi Limited (ENGEN) to stop supplying the suspended stations.
The suspension will remain in place until MERA completes further investigations and verifies that corrective measures have been implemented to prevent future violations. This move demonstrates MERA’s commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting the interests of consumers and the environment.
It’s worth noting that this is not the first time MERA has taken action against rogue fuel stations. In November 2023, MERA suspended operations at Mount Meru Chinsapo Fuel Service StationMERA Cracks Down on Rogue Fuel Stations
