The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has announced a special arrangement allowing all vehicles, both with odd and even number plates, to obtain fuel under the QR system on April 1st. This decision, confirmed by CPC Managing Director Dr. Mayura Neththikumarage and Chairman D.A. Rajakaruna, was made because March 31st and April 1st are consecutive odd-numbered dates, which would otherwise restrict even-numbered vehicles, and also considering April 1st as a Poya holiday. This special provision is applicable only for April 1st, with a tanker carrying 32,000 metric tons of fuel expected to arrive this Thursday to bolster supplies.
CPC Managing Director Dr. Mayura Neththikumarage further confirmed that fuel supplies from Russia have been secured, with tankers for April and May largely confirmed. He noted that delays in bringing these ships are primarily due to the busy conditions at Sri Lanka's two main fuel unloading points, with discussions ongoing regarding arrival dates and technical aspects.
[UPDATE] The CPC Chairman further confirmed that the odd and even number plate system for fuel distribution will be re-implemented from April 2nd.
Separately, the government has approved Cabinet relief to stabilize fuel prices, effective March 22, 2026, to mitigate the impact of Middle East tensions. This involves the government covering losses for oil companies, up to Rs. 20 per liter for Octane 92 petrol and Rs. 100 per liter for Auto Diesel, if import costs exceed stated selling prices.
Addressing concerns related to the Middle East situation, CPC Managing Director Dr. Mayura Neththikumarage affirmed that there is no risk of a fuel shortage in the country. He explained that the fuel industry has adapted by adopting alternative methods, allowing the situation to be effectively managed despite the ongoing conflict.