Switzerland is contemplating a temporary reduction in speed limits on highways to 80 km/h as part of measures to conserve fuel, the Federal Office for Economic Supply has announced. The country has entered a critical situation regarding fuel supplies, prompting the authorization of emergency diesel reserves last Friday, according to reports.
The Federal Office describes the current fuel situation as “very tense,” emphasizing its role in ensuring that Switzerland does not face shortages of essential goods. Reports from the Swiss newspaper Aargauer Zeitung indicate that the office is now considering implementing this speed limit reduction.
A consultation process has been initiated with other administrative services on this matter, a proposal that has been previously considered during the outbreak of the Iran war when the Swiss Green Party suggested lowering the maximum speed from 120 km/h on most highways to 80 km/h.
The proposed temporary speed limit aims to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing fuel savings measures, although the specific savings value has not yet been disclosed. This change will be implemented following the conclusion of the consultation process.
In the meantime, the federal government plans to encourage the public to use resources judiciously. “Calls for carpooling, using public transport, and reducing leisure travel can help lower fuel consumption,” stated the Swiss government.
While instability in the Persian Gulf largely explains the current situation in Switzerland, Aargauer Zeitung also highlights other contributing factors, including pipeline delivery delays caused by heavy rains in southern France, which have resulted in temporary diesel shortages. Additionally, the Rhine Valley rail line has been closed multiple times recently, complicating rail deliveries to Switzerland. Furthermore, river transport has been nearly paralyzed due to persistent drought affecting sections of the Rhine.
