Thelandofpapua.com – Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Papua Maluku has launched a Nataru Task Force to ensure the secure distribution of fuel (BBM) and LPG during the 2024 Christmas and 2025 New Year celebrations. The task force, operational from December 16, 2024, to January 9, 2025, is a strategic initiative to meet increased energy demands during the festive season.

“In preparation for Nataru 2024/2025, we have mapped out key areas where Christmas and New Year celebrations are concentrated,” said Executive General Manager Sunardi. He further highlighted the challenges posed by seasonal weather conditions, which are typically unfavorable from late December to March. “We have taken proactive measures to address potential disruptions and ensure a reliable energy supply during this period,” he added.

Fuel and LPG Demand to Surge

According to Ayub Ritto, Area Manager Retail Sales Papua Maluku, the demand for Gasoline products such as Pertalite, Pertamax, and Pertamax Turbo is projected to increase by 22.3% compared to the daily average during the task force’s operations. Meanwhile, Gasoil products, including Solar and Dexlite, are expected to see a modest rise of 0.9%.

Household LPG consumption is predicted to grow by 31.2%, while kerosene demand could experience a significant surge of 77.3%. Aviation fuel (Avtur) usage is also anticipated to rise by 38.5% due to increased air travel during the holidays.

“We are prepared to support this surge in demand by increasing stock levels at gas stations and ensuring uninterrupted supply,” Ayub stated. He estimated that peak travel periods would occur from December 19–23 for Christmas and December 30–31 for New Year celebrations, with return traffic peaking between January 2 and 5, 2025.

Comprehensive Infrastructure Ready

Pertamina Patra Niaga has bolstered its infrastructure to support the heightened energy needs. The preparations include:

• 21 fuel terminals, including two LPG terminals
• 79 regular gas stations
• 391 non-regular gas stations
• 202 Pertashop outlets
• 2 non-public LPG stations (SPBE NPSO)
• 29 NPSO LPG agencies
• 114 kerosene agents
• 12 aviation fueling tankers (AFT)

To enhance public service, the company has also deployed energy support services along major travel and tourist routes. These services include:

• 51 standby gas stations
• 15 standby LPG agencies and outlets
• 4 health service posts
• 4 Bright Gas affordable markets
• 2 MyPertamina lounges at Sentani and Pattimura Airports

“Our infrastructure and operational readiness ensure that fuel and LPG distribution in Papua Maluku will remain secure throughout the holiday season,” Ayub emphasized.

With these extensive preparations, Pertamina Patra Niaga aims to provide a seamless energy supply to support community activities and holiday festivities across Papua Maluku.