Iran fuel rations spark anger, pump stations burn

Angry Iranian motorists queued for gasoline for hours on Wednesday after the world's fourth-largest oil exporter imposed fuel rationing, sparking chaotic scenes and the torching of at least two pump stations. One Iranian news agency, Fars, said 12 gasoline stations were set ablaze in Tehran after the government's announcement late on Tuesday, but only two could be independently confirmed. Some drivers had scuffled while waiting to fill up their tanks before the rationing started at midnight. Others openly criticized President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's government, which came to power vowing to share out Iran's oil wealth more fairly. "We are swimming in oil and all they do is just put pressure on people," Despite its huge energy reserves, Iran lacks refining capacity and must import about 40 percent of its gasoline, a sensitive issue when world powers have threatened new U.N. sanctions in a row with Tehran over its nuclear program. One fuel station in Pounak, a poorer area of the capital, was set alight while another in eastern Tehran was partially burnt, two of its pumps destroyed by fire, witnesses said. Windows at the one in Pounak were smashed, six pumps wrecked and walls blackened. State radio blamed "opportunistic elements". Police could not be reached for comment. Last night's riots were an expression of the anger of people with lower incomes," said government employee Saeed Sameti, although he said he in principle backed rationing. Motorists still faced long lines on Wednesday in a country where many see abundant and cheap fuel as a national right. Short of public transport, many rely on cars or taxis to get around in the capital of 12 million people. Some taxi drivers raised their fares by 20-80 percent on Wednesday, media said. "I cannot tolerate more economic pressure," said teacher Hasan Sanjari. "My monthly salary is $300. I have three sons." Parliament had argued for offering fuel above the rationed amount at market prices, a step opposed by the government which fears this would stoke inflation, already at 17 percent.