The BC Government is extending fuel rationing until they can get the Trans Mountain Pipeline up and running.
The rationing order affects the Lower Mainland to Hope region, Sea to Sky region, Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island, and will remain in place until December 14th.
“We need to stay the course for another two weeks until we have the Trans Mountain Pipeline back online. We need to ensure our supply chains and emergency services have the fuel that they need to function,” said Minister of Public Safety Mike Farnworth.
Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy said that the province is getting the fuel that it needs from the U.S as well as Alberta as they work on the pipeline.
“The Trans Mountain Pipeline provides the majority of transportation fuels for the Lower Mainland and Vancouver island. The pipeline has been down since November 14th, although crews are working around the clock to restart the line in a phased approach.”
The pipeline provides 85% of the fuel required for refining, but fuel is coming in from both barges as well as railways.
Rob Fleming said that the broader supply chain is still doing well, noting trains are still moving.
“Freight trains are currently travelling in both directions on CP tracks. CP continues to actively inspect it’s tracks and train movement may hold when required for maintenance before it resumes again.”