Portugal: Gas stations run dry after third day of trucker strike

Around 40% of Portugal’s gas stations have run out of fuel due as the tanker drivers’ strike enters a third day.

This Wednesday the Portuguese government implemented emergency measures to ensure a sufficient fuel supply for ambulances, airports, fire trucks and other key services after talks to end the strike broke on Tuesday, reports The Portugal News.

Many stations across Portugal saw long queues forming, a kilometre in some cases, with drivers desperate to fuel up. Around 800 stations around the capital Lisbon suffered from shortages, and 400 around Porto.

The union representing the majority of Portuguese truck drivers who transport dangerous materials went on strike on Monday seeking a wage hike and special protections.

The country’s airports are also feeling the effects of the strike with the two main airports reaching critical levels of fuel reserves. Some airlines are redirecting their planes to Spain to refuel.

On Tuesday, the National Union of Dangerous Goods Drivers has promised the government to provide minimum services – some 40% of gas stations and key services such as hospitals and airports.