Considering the difficulties in the energy sector arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Government has decided to declare every Wednesday as a government holiday to reduce energy consumption. 

Essential services such as health, ports, water supply, and customs will continue as usual. Schools, universities, and courts will observe the holiday, the Commissioner of Essential Services, Prabath Chandrakirthi, stated.

He made this announcement at a special press conference held at the Government Information Department in Colombo on March 16. 

Further clarifying the decision, he said that a special discussion was held under the chairmanship of President Anurag Kumar Dissanayake, attended by the Prime Minister, ministers, and secretaries of ministries, to review challenges expected in the energy sector due to the Middle East conflict.

On this basis, it was decided that each Wednesday will be a government holiday. Essential services, including health, ports, water supply, and customs, are exempt from this holiday. Schools, universities, and courts will remain closed.

Additionally, all government celebrations have been temporarily suspended until further notice. Private sector entities have been advised to take note, as requested by the Trade Services and Sri Lanka Services Union. Fuel requirements for tourism, industrial, healthcare, agriculture, and handicraft sectors will be assessed and supplied accordingly.

Four main committees have been established to manage implementation:

• General services under the Prime Minister

• Energy-related matters under Minister Vijitha Herath

• Distribution and monitoring of essential goods under Minister Pimal Ratnayake

• Welfare services under Minister Upali Pannilage

Heads of government institutions have been authorised to determine the number of staff required on days other than Wednesday. Although current fuel stocks are adequate, the decision is based on anticipated future shortages. Technical issues in the QR code system will be resolved within a few days.

Online education has not been restricted; universities have the authority to make decisions in consultation with the Ministry of Education. Examination schedules will not face significant delays, although minor adjustments may occur. Current fuel stock is sufficient for one month, with four previously scheduled fuel shipments confirmed.

Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Alok Pandara, emphasised that reducing energy consumption is the primary aim of this decision. Guidelines for schools will be issued by the Ministry of Education. District and provincial secretariats, as well as local councils, will implement the decision without disruption to essential services. All government institutions are instructed to enforce energy consumption limits as per the 2022 circular on electricity and fuel usage.