16 Apr 2022 | 08:10 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: State-owned gas company orders fuel rationing nationwide as of April 16
State-owned petrol company rationing fuel across Sri Lanka as of April 16. Gas shortage possible; demonstrations likely.
Event
State-owned Ceylon Petroleum Corporation is restricting fuel distribution and rationing supplies as of April 16 to prevent fuel shortages. The company controls two-thirds of the domestic retail market, suggesting rationing will likely impact most parts of the country. Under the rationing scheme, authorities will limit motorcycles to four liters and three-wheeled vehicles to five liters of fuel. Private cars and vans/SUVs are limited to 19.5 liters of petrol or diesel. Government authorities claim that the country's other leading distributor, Lanka IOC, will also restrict distribution, but it is unclear if the company has already implemented the rationing scheme.
Reports indicate that many retail stations are already low or out of fuel. Long lines are likely at stations with available fuel and will probably lead to localized transport disruptions. The rationing plan will not apply to commercial vehicles. However, businesses must obtain permission from the government, especially if attempting to store fuel.
Gas shortages remain possible. Fuel rationing and shortages will probably exacerbate ongoing protests in the country. Residents could gather at public squares, gas company facilities, and government offices.
Advice
Stock up on fuel when possible. Limit vehicle use to preserve fuel. Allow considerable extra time to obtain fuel, if necessary. Avoid protests due to the potential for clashes. If fuel is needed for operations, contact government authorities for permission, and consider stockpiling fuel, if possible. Follow all security and traffic advisories.
