Taxi drivers in Heidelberg say the latest fuel price increase is set to place further strain on an already struggling transport sector.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced that, from March 3, petrol, diesel, paraffin, and LPG prices across South Africa will rise.

The adjustments are attributed to a combination of global oil-market pressures and local-currency conditions.

Mpumelelo Nhlapo (28) said the increase will have a direct impact on their daily earnings.

“The petrol price increase is really bad for us as drivers. I wish the government would consider us before making such decisions because fuel is part of our everyday work,” he said.

Justice Mzinyane (44) highlighted the wider economic strain. “Many people are not working, and every cent counts in this economy. With higher fuel costs, it means we are sometimes operating at a loss,” he said.

Mavela Nkosi (43) pointed to international conflicts as a contributing factor. “I think this is also caused by wars between countries overseas. It affects us because tariffs may increase, putting more pressure on everyone,” he said.

Thomas Zonkizizwe Nhlapo (56) warned of the burden on long-distance drivers. “This is very difficult, especially for drivers who travel long distances every day. Many people are unemployed, so it will be hard for everyone,” he said.

Nationwide increases include:

• Petrol (93 and 95 ULP & LRP): up 20 cents per litre

• Diesel (0.05% sulphur): up 62 cents per litre

• Diesel (0.005% sulphur): up 65 cents per litre

• Illuminating paraffin (wholesale): up 44 cents per litre

• Illuminating paraffin SMNRP: up 58 cents per litre

• Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG): maximum retail price up 23 cents per kilogram