Colombo, March 1: The Sri Lankan government on Saturday reassured citizens that there is no shortage of fuel, despite widespread panic buying leading to long queues at fuel stations across the country.
Motorists rushed to fuel stations in significant numbers after the Petroleum Dealers Association announced on Friday that they would halt new fuel orders. The association's decision stems from an ongoing dispute with the government regarding proposed cuts to their commission rates. Dealers have accused the authorities of attempting to impose a three per cent reduction on commissions, fueling anxiety among consumers.
This unexpected rush evoked memories of Sri Lanka's severe economic crisis in 2022, when fuel shortages led to prolonged queues and significant disruptions nationwide.
Speaking in Parliament on Saturday, Deputy Finance Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando dismissed concerns over fuel availability. "There is enough fuel stock, and no question of a shortage," he emphasized, attributing the sudden surge in demand to unnecessary panic buying. Fernando went further, suggesting that the controversy surrounding fuel supply was orchestrated by groups aiming to create trouble for the government.
However, opposition members voiced strong concerns, accusing the government of ignoring genuine issues. They urged immediate intervention to address public anxiety. Tensions escalated further when opposition lawmakers criticized Speaker Jagath Wickremaratna, alleging that he deliberately blocked their attempts to raise critical questions. They claimed that Wickremaratna was under the influence of House leader Bimal Rathnayaka, accusing Rathnayaka of attempting to silence opposition voices.
Despite these parliamentary tensions, the government has affirmed that continuous fuel supplies will reach retailers throughout the weekend, attempting to calm public fears and discourage further panic buying.
Last updated by a enewsx: