South Africa's annual supply mission to Marion Island has been delayed due to fuel shortages caused by the war between the US, Israel and Iran. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment confirmed that global scarcity of specialised polar diesel disrupted the departure of the SA Agulhas II. Officials stated they are working to limit the impact while ensuring safety.
The vessel had been scheduled to leave Cape Town on 9 April. Fuel supplies only reached a local refinery on 1 May, requiring additional blending and testing before the ship could be refuelled.
Minister Willie Aucamp said the department was cooperating with stakeholders to reduce the delay. He added that every precaution was being taken to guarantee the safe return of the team.
Reserves on the island are sufficient until around 20 May without conservation measures. Food stocks should last another two months. The department noted that fuel delivery to the vessel is expected to start within days and that departure will follow immediately.
