RUBiS Energy Jamaica has announced the resumption of the haulage and dispatch of fuel to several of its service stations across the island, following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

Fuel distribution recommenced as early as Wednesday, after the completion of a comprehensive post-hurricane assessment. Since then, the company has continued to reopen its service stations islandwide, including those located in the hard-hit parishes of Westmoreland, St James, Trelawny, and Manchester.

The RUBiS Westgate service station in Montego Bay, St James, remains open 24 hours.

Adequate fuel available

The fuel distributor is still undertaking evaluations to determine the operational readiness and safety conditions of other locations, while welfare assessments continue as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of its team members and customers.

Michel Malatino, CEO of the Rockfort-based RUBiS Energy Jamaica, is reassuring the public that the company maintains adequate fuel reserves to meet market demand.

“On Thursday, we dispatched 15 road tanker wagons, even though road traffic and access challenges remain in the most affected areas. We also have an additional 30 days’ supply of fuel in stock at our Rockfort terminal,” he said.

Malatino added that the upcoming weekend will be particularly active, with scheduled deliveries to service stations and customers to continue on Saturday and Sunday.

“We have implemented shift systems at our terminals to ensure that our teams receive adequate rest during this challenging period,” he further explained.

RUBiS Energy Jamaica has been working closely with the Ministry of Energy as well as the Jamaica Constabulary Force to help facilitate the secure movement of fuel trucks and to support the safe reopening of service stations, particularly in the hardest-hit areas.

Sympathy, commitment and support

The CEO has expressed sympathy for those affected by Hurricane Melissa and urged members of the public to exercise caution while travelling on the nation’s roadways.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected. We continue to work tirelessly to support the restoration of essential services and to ensure that Jamaicans have access to the fuel they need,” he said.

RUBiS Energy Jamaica reaffirmed its commitment to restoring full operations as quickly and safely as possible. The company has also launched targeted relief initiatives to assist communities most affected by the hurricane across the island.

The company is reassuring customers that while some sites may not yet look their best, comprehensive safety checks have been completed to ensure that all reopened locations are safe for operation.

Additionally, RUBiS is actively supporting major commercial customers, including utilities and telecommunications providers, to help restore and maintain essential services across Jamaica.