Sri Lanka: Military deployed during fuel strike July 26

Event

The Sri Lankan military was deployed to help distribute fuel supplies after the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) went on strike on Wednesday, July 26. The firm controls the majority of the island's fuel supplies, and the strike has led to shortages and long queues at fuel stations. Reports say the military removed picketers from a Colombo-area fuel storage facility, prompting concerns of protests developing in the area in the near-term.

Context

Sri Lanka's cabinet approved a deal with the Chinese government on July 25 to run the country's Hambantota port, harboring oil transport infrastructure. CPC opposes the deal, considering it a means to introduce unwanted foreign competition into the country's energy sector. Additionally, workers are demanding the government cancel a recent lease of oil tanks to the Indian Oil Corporation on the island's eastern coast.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka are advised to fill up gas tanks whenever possible, be prepared for transportation disruptions, and monitor the situation. Additionally, individuals should avoid any and all demonstrations associated with the strike.