Sri Lanka has announced a drastic measure to conserve fuel reserves, declaring every Wednesday a public holiday and reducing the work week to four days. According to #3NewsGH, the decision is a response to the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has disrupted global oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.
The move is aimed at reducing fuel consumption and managing the country’s energy reserves. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the need for caution, stating, “We must prepare for the worst, but hope for the best.” The four-day work week will apply to government institutions, schools, universities, and courts, while essential services like healthcare, ports, and customs will continue to operate normally.
The Sri Lankan government has also reintroduced a QR-based fuel distribution system to manage domestic supplies. Under this system, vehicles with valid QR codes will be issued fuel according to weekly quotas based on their type. Motorcycles are allowed five liters of fuel per week, while motorcars and three-wheelers can purchase 15 liters.
The decision comes amid fears of possible fuel shortages, with global oil prices surging to around $100 a barrel. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for energy shipments, has been disrupted, affecting countries reliant on oil imports. Sri Lanka, still recovering from its 2022 economic crisis, is taking proactive measures to mitigate the impact.
Other Asian countries, including Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, have also implemented austerity measures to conserve fuel and energy. As the situation continues to unfold, Sri Lanka’s move is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s energy landscape.
Source: #3NewsGH
Author: Korkor Anumu
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