No barrels, no cans as queues wind their way from fuel stations

No barrels, no cans as queues wind their way from fuel stations

The Ministry of Petroleum Resources Development has decided to temporarily halt the issuance of fuel to barrels and cans. Secretary to the Ministry, Upali Marasinghe said this decision was taken to avoid the public from attempting to store large amounts of fuel as a result of an undue fear.

The Secretary also said the government possesses stocks of petrol sufficient for several days. Long queues have been reported near fuel stations in Colombo and surrounding areas since November 3.

This was after a shipment of fuel imported by Lanka IOC was rejected. It is stated that the shipment was proved to be of substandard quality.

Issuing a communique, Subject Minister, Arjuna Ranatunga called on the the general public to use petrol sparingly, but without any undue fear.

According to the communique, the ministry is capable of supplying 80% of the fuel requirement of the country.

Minister Ranatunga further noted the supply of diesel and kerosene remains without disruption. However, our correspondents said that long queues were seen near fuel stations last night as well.