SINTANG, TheKabarNews.com—The Sintang administration is monitoring fuel distribution after persistent queues at filling stations. Reports of repeated purchases for resale have pushed kiosk prices well above official pump rates.

Sintang Regent Gregorius Herkulanus Bala said Wednesday, September 23, that the local government faced a difficult balance. They must allow motorists to fill their tanks but also ensure that available supplies reach more consumers.

“Whatever policy we adopt, those who feel harmed will rate it poorly, while those who benefit tend to remain silent,” Bala said.

Residents have reported paying around Rp16,000 per liter for Pertalite at roadside kiosks. In contrast, some retailers have charged as much as Rp19,000 for Pertamax.

The reported Pertalite price is about 60 percent above the Rp10,000 reference pump price published by Pertamina.

The kiosk figures reflect reported local selling prices rather than an official price survey covering every retailer in Sintang.

Local officials have linked the queues to a combination of distribution pressure and motorists purchasing fuel repeatedly. They then resell it at a higher price.

However, the administration has not released data showing how much of the supply went to resellers. In addition, they have not shown how much resulted from wider logistical constraints.

Police earlier found a vehicle fitted with a modified tank amid the fuel queues. Authorities said they were investigating its filling pattern and the intended use of the fuel.

The finding does not establish that all kiosk operators obtain their stock through unlawful purchases.

Bala said unrestricted refueling could create a separate access problem.

“If we allow everyone to fill motorcycle and car tanks to the maximum, many other vehicles may end up receiving no fuel,” he said.

The prolonged dry season has added to the pressure. During a September 3 coordination meeting, Bala cited low river levels. He also cited long station queues and asked Pertamina to explain the supply situation.

Representatives from Pertamina Patra Niaga, the regional administration and fuel distributors attended that meeting.

Deputy Regent Florensius Ronny previously urged kiosk operators to keep Pertalite prices at no more than Rp13,000 per liter.

That appeal is a local effort to limit the burden on consumers; it does not replace national fuel-pricing and distribution rules.

The Sintang Industry and Trade Agency has deployed a team to monitor retail prices and distribution in the field.

Effective enforcement will also require filling-station transaction records and coordination with Pertamina, police and the downstream oil and gas regulator.

“The government is trying to act, although finding firm ground for a policy is difficult,” Bala said.

Sintang must now determine whether the queues primarily reflect inadequate deliveries, repeat purchases or weaknesses in retail controls.

Publishing supply and sales data would allow authorities to target irregular transactions. This could be achieved without restricting legitimate consumers who depend on fuel for transport and work.