Severe Fuel Shortage Hits Bali, Hours-Long Queues Disrupt Travel for Tourists and Residents

A severe fuel shortage has gripped Bali since Sunday, Oct 11, causing hours-long queues at petrol stations across the island. Disruptions have been reported in Denpasar, Badung, and near I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, with traffic congestion along Tuban Road leading to the airport. Lines of motorbikes and cars have spilled onto public roads, and some motorists have been forced to push vehicles after running out of fuel.

Local media attribute the shortage to adjusted delivery schedules by Pertamina Patra Niaga, the fuel-distribution arm of state-owned Pertamina, combined with tanker delays at the Sanggaran and Manggis terminals amid strong demand. The company says Bali's fuel consumption averages about 2,200 kilolitres a day, and it is working to optimize deliveries. Despite assurances from Bali's governor that the shortage was under control, disruptions persisted into Tuesday.

The impact on tourism has been notable: one diving operator and his guest were stranded at a petrol station for nearly two hours after an airport pickup, risking a missed boat connection to Nusa Penida. Prices at informal roadside fuel sellers have also risen, adding costs for residents and businesses. Meanwhile, demand for electric motorbike rentals has surged, with some operators raising daily rates and requiring minimum three-day bookings. Bali welcomed about five million foreign tourists in the first half of 2025, underscoring how dependent the island's tourism economy is on reliable fuel supply.