Sri Lanka: Gas companies rationing fuel nationwide due to shortages as of May 9

Event

Gas companies are rationing gas for public use nationwide due to ongoing shortages as of May 9. State-owned Litro Gas Lanka Limited has advised people not to stand in long queues for gas as fuel is only being supplied for industrial use. Officials are also limiting the issuance of fuel at gas stations for motorcycles, other three-wheeled vehicles, as well as for vans and cars; buses, trucks, and commercial vehicles are exempt from the measure. Laugfs Gas, another large gas distributor, is also mostly conserving gas reserves for use by industries and medical facilities.

Despite authorities advising civilians to not queue at stations, long lines remain likely at gas stations with available fuel, especially in major cities. and will probably lead to localized transport disruptions. Businesses likely must obtain permission from the government, especially if attempting to store fuel.

Fuel rationing and shortages will probably exacerbate ongoing protests in the country. Protesters have blocked roads and obstructed the passage of fuel tankers in several areas in recent days. Residents could gather at public squares, gas company facilities, and government offices. Police typically act quickly to disperse protestors and remove roadblocks; the use of force during especially disruptive protests may lead to retaliatory violence.

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.