The ongoing conflict in West Asia has sparked a severe fuel crisis across Asia, with several countries facing significant petrol and diesel shortages. Sri Lanka, in particular, is grappling with acute supply constraints, prompting the government to implement a rationing system for vehicles despite rising fuel prices. Under this new system, fuel distribution is managed using QR codes, limiting the amount of petrol or diesel a vehicle can receive each week.
Sri Lanka relies heavily on foreign imports for its energy needs, sourcing around 80 percent of its fuel through the Hormuz Strait. Disruptions caused by the war have slowed shipments, depleting oil reserves and forcing the government to take stringent measures. Under the rationing system, two-wheelers are allotted 8 liters per week, three-wheelers 20 liters, cars 25 liters, buses 100 liters, and lorries 200 liters.
The QR code system is linked to vehicle registration numbers. When scanned at fuel stations, it records the last refueling, preventing repeated refueling within the week. This ensures fair distribution of fuel and curbs overconsumption. With a population of 22 million, Sri Lanka currently has only enough fuel reserves to last approximately 25 days, making rationing essential to manage the limited supply.
To further reduce fuel consumption, the Sri Lankan government has mandated the closure of government offices, schools, and colleges every Wednesday. Authorities believe that this, combined with the rationing system, will help conserve fuel and extend the existing reserves, mitigating the impact of the ongoing crisis.