Fuel crisis puts financial strain on NSRI operations

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has reaffirmed its commitment to emergency response despite a global spike in fuel prices that is placing significant pressure on its operational systems.

The organisation noted that rising costs driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East directly impact its ability to sustain lifesaving operations and conduct essential training for volunteer crews.

Because the NSRI’s entire infrastructure, from rescue vessels to land-based response vehicles, depends heavily on fuel, the financial burden is substantial.

The organisation revealed that the annual cost of running its fleet now exceeds R5.5 million. According to spokesperson Andrew Ingram, these price hikes create a ripple effect that touches everything from immediate readiness to long-term drowning prevention activities.

"Our commitment to save lives will not change. We will always respond to emergencies," says Ingram. "We are proactively using fuel strategically by ensuring every training session counts, while protecting fuel for emergency response. The NSRI relies on donations to fund our work; every donation helps us save lives."

By Nkosikhona Malinga-Mnisi