A shortage of fuel has led to long lines at petrol stations in Egypt's capital, on the ninth day of anti-presidential protest.
Only state petrol stations in Cairo continue working on Wednesday, while private petrol station managers say they are running out of fuel as they are unable to pay for supplies as banks remain closed.
World oil prices have climbed to their highest level in more than two years, amid concerns that the Egypt crisis could disrupt oil shipments through the strategic Suez Canal.
The Egyptian energy ministry released a statement on Wednesday saying domestic gasoline supplies will be sufficient and warned drivers against stirring panic.
Banks and almost all cafes and restaurants in Cairo are shut down. Food stores are still open but there is a lack of essential foodstuffs such as rice, bread and canned products.
"We are not receiving some goods because of the curfew," a local grocery shop owner said.
Media reports said three people were killed in bread riots in Egypt over the past few days.
Egypt has been engulfed in violent protests against the 30-year rule of President Hosni Mubarak since January 25. The riots that swept through Cairo, Alexandria, Suez and other Egyptian cities have already claimed the lives of at least 300 people, with another 4,000 reported injured.
CAIRO, February 2 (RIA Novosti)
