Winnipeg drivers are feeling a serious pinch at the pumps. On Tuesday, many gas stations across the city raised the price of regular gasoline to over $1.64 per litre. One driver described the increase as “bloody ridiculous.” “I’m from the Saskatchewan border, and we’re about 149.9,” they said. Another added, “Nobody was suspecting that; it was a surprise.” The sudden spike in fuel prices has left drivers shaking their heads, trying to figure out how to get to work affordably. One motorist noted, “I haven’t gassed up recently, but it would be well over $100.” Others are exploring alternative ways to save on fuel costs, suggesting carpooling, buying electric, walking, running or biking. And it’s not just gasoline prices impacting drivers. The cost of diesel fuel has risen more than 50 cents per litre at some stations, including over $2.00 per litre along Route 90. Jason Dubois, owner of Len Dubois Trucking, says the volatility in fuel markets has been dramatic.“The last year has become quite volatile, and then of course since the Iran War, we’ve seen a jump up 30, 40, 50 cents a litre here, virtually overnight.” Dubois manages a fleet of 75 trucks hauling freight across the country and notes the rising diesel prices are putting pressure on already slim profit margins. “It jumped up over a $1 a gallon in one week in the U.S. and the Department of Energy down there has said it was the largest increase they’ve ever seen since they started tracking that number. Now we have to have our surcharge fluctuate daily. Historically it’s been weekly, some even monthly in stable times.” Industry leaders warn that if fuel prices continue to climb, the impact could be severe. Aaron Dolyniuk, executive director of the Manitoba Trucking Association, says if fuel prices continue to rise, “this could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.” “We could see some bankruptcies as a result because it’s been a really tough number of years for our industry here,” he said.
