MMC for Roads and Transport Alerts Commuters on Fuel Challenges Affecting Tshwane Bus Services
Tshwane bus services
By Cllr Tlangi Mogale
MMC for Roads & Transport
The MMC for Roads and Transport would like to alert all commuters utilising the Tshwane Bus Service (TBS) of the current fuel supply challenges being experienced by the City of Tshwane, which are significantly affecting normal bus operations.
Tshwane Bus Services operates a total of 155 daily shifts across its three depots, namely:
• C de Wet Depot: 102 shifts
• Pretoria North Depot: 31 shifts
• East Lynne Depot: 22 shifts
At present, all three TBS depot filling stations have run out of fuel.
This situation has had a major impact on operations, resulting in a reduced number of buses in service and the disruption of scheduled trips.
From yesterday afternoon, only 65 out of the planned 155 shifts were able to
operate, using the limited fuel that remained.
The City had anticipated a similar level
of service this morning.
However, there is a strong likelihood that no bus services will operate in the afternoon should fuel supplies are not restored in time.
The City is actively engaging with suppliers and expects fuel deliveries later in the week.
The current disruption is driven by a combination of external factors affecting fuel availability and pricing.
These include the scheduled fuel levy increase effective 1 April 2026, which has led to increased demand as motorists rush to fill up ahead of the price adjustment at midnight, further exacerbating supply shortages.
Additional pressures include rising international oil prices linked to
instability in the Middle East,including tensions involving Iran, the weakening of the Rand against the US Dollar, and increased global shipping costs.
These factors, together with annual fuel related adjustments linked to the national budget, continue to place strain on supply and pricing.
We acknowledge the inconvenience this disruption causes to our commuters.
While alternative transport options may be limited and not always affordable, passengers are urged to make necessary arrangements to reach their destinations during this period.
The City of Tshwane remains committed to restoring full operations as soon as fuel supply is secured and will continue to provide updates to the public.