The Ministry of Energy has stated that certain groups are illegally hoarding fuel and selling it at higher prices at a time when global disruptions have affected fuel supply. 

 

According to the ministry, this practice has become one of the main reasons for the unusually high demand for fuel purchases.

 

The ministry emphasised that preventing such activities and ensuring the uninterrupted continuation of the public’s daily life as well as the country’s economic activities is the responsibility of the government.

 

Accordingly, in order to safeguard the stability of fuel distribution, a quota system based on a QR code has been implemented for fuel purchases with effect from 6.00 a.m. on March 15. Authorities have announced that fuel cannot be purchased at any filling station without the quota system.

 

Due to the escalating conflict situation in the Middle East, global fuel supply has been disrupted. As a result, fuel demand in the country has increased unexpectedly, making it necessary to manage existing fuel stocks carefully and prioritise their use for economic activities.

 

The ministry reiterated that illegal fuel hoarding and black-market sales are contributing to abnormal demand. Preventing such black-market activities while ensuring the smooth functioning of public life and the national economy remains a key responsibility of the government.

 

Under the quota system, weekly fuel allocations have been set as follows:

 

• Buses: 60 litres

• Motorcycles: 5 litres

• Vans: 40 litres

• Motor cars: 15 litres

• Lorries: 200 litres

• Land vehicles (off-road): 25 litres

• Three-wheelers: 15 litres

• Special service vehicles (ambulances): 40 litres

• Quadricycles: 5 litres

 

Fuel for private buses will be distributed through the Sri Lanka Transport Board.

 

 

Those who have previously registered for the quota system may download their quota from https://fuelpass.gov.lk/ from midnight on March 14, provided the vehicle ownership or registered phone number has not changed.

 

If the vehicle ownership or phone number has changed, re-registration must be completed through the same website from 6.00 a.m. on March 15.

 

Those who have not previously registered and owners of newly registered vehicles at the Department of Motor Traffic may register through the website from 6.00 a.m. on March 15.

 

Fuel will also be distributed under special procedures for institutions engaged in national production activities and essential services.