Makhachkala residents reported problems with automobile fuel.

Motorists in Makhachkala aren't experiencing a fuel shortage, but they are forced to wait in line for it due to the closure of some gas stations. Meanwhile, both gasoline of all grades and gas have risen significantly in price.

As reported by "Caucasian Knot," at the end of May, Makhachkala residents complained that a significant number of gas stations in the city were closed, forcing them to wait in line. Analysts attributed the closure to ongoing efforts to improve gas station safety.

Makhachkala residents interviewed by "Caucasian Knot" described the increase in gas prices as noticeable. The survey is not representative and reflects only the personal opinions of those surveyed.

Many gas stations in Makhachkala remain closed at the request of regulatory authorities due to non-compliance with safety requirements, said 50-year-old university professor Rustam.

"There are no chain gas stations in Dagestan; all are privately owned. The 95-octane gasoline I use has gone up in price by 7-8 rubles per liter, and costs an average of 85 rubles. "It's hard for me to give up my trips because I live in Kaspiysk and commute to and from work in Makhachkala every day, and I also drop my wife off," the man said, adding that looking for cheaper fuel in other districts or towns makes no sense.

Salim, a self-employed worker in the consumer goods industry, noted that he was glad that gas stations located near residential buildings in Makhachkala had closed. However, he said other gas stations have also been closed for various violations.

"I personally haven't felt a fuel shortage yet. I look for a gas station, get in line, and fill up. The price of 92-octane gasoline for my car has gone up by 10 rubles. I still have gas equipment, but gas has also become 5 rubles more expensive. "We'll have to work more and drive less," Salim told a "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

Gasoline prices have risen everywhere in Makhachkala due to the closure of gas stations, entrepreneur Kurban, who works in the food delivery industry, told a "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

"AI-92 costs 75-80 rubles, AI-95 costs 80-85 rubles, and the price of gas has risen from 25 to 30 rubles. The cost of delivery and the goods themselves has remained the same for now, although their transportation is more expensive. I think if fuel prices continue to rise, suppliers will also raise their prices," Kurban believes.

Zaira, a housewife from Makhachkala, drives her car every day. She noted that the rise in fuel prices is hitting her family budget hard.

"I take the kids to school in the morning and pick them up after lunch. I also have to go to the market, to the shops, and to do other errands. I'm already feeling the additional financial burden. I can't give up my car," the Makhachkala resident told a "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

The cost of basic fuels in the republic has increased due to the fact that gas station owners in Dagestan have encountered difficulties purchasing fuel, RIA Dagestan reported on June 15. The Telegram channel "Ask Rasul" noted that same day that the mass closure of gas stations due to safety violations is creating additional pressure on the regional fuel market in Dagestan.

"Restricted supply, amid existing logistical difficulties, inevitably leads to higher prices and the risk of shortages. As a result, tensions in society are growing, and the lack of a noticeable public response from the authorities so far only heightens questions about the mechanisms for resolving the situation and the timeframe for its resolution," the channel's post stated.