As fuel is running out at many gas stations in France, tanker trucks are now also allowed to drive on weekends. The ban on vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes carrying hydrocarbon products was lifted until Monday, according to a decree published on Saturday night. One of the main reasons for the current supply problems is likely to be the strike at three of the six French refineries, which has lasted several days.
According to media reports, up to 20 percent of gas stations are affected by shortages of gasoline or diesel. Bottlenecks are particularly common in northern France and the Paris region. The tank discount currently in effect in France has also led to a rush, especially in border regions.
Environment Minister Christophe Béchu called for “calm and responsibility” and assured in an interview with Franceinfo television on Saturday: “The situation must continue to improve”. Currently, nationwide restrictions are not planned.