Minister warns that forex shortage will continue to restrict fuel imports

By Ratindra Kuruwita and Ifham Nizam

Forex issues would lead to restricting of fuel imports in the next 12 months, Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera yesterday warned.

He told journalists that the QR system had been introduced since the daily fuel demand could not be met. He said that the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation had never distributed fuel daily to every single fuel station.

“Practically, not possible even when stocks are unlimited,” he stressed.

The National Fuel Pass will be implemented countrywide from today (26th July) in multiple locations at CEYPETCO and LIOC filling stations.

“The rationing system, based on the last digits of vehicle number plates, would be effective until 01 August. Stations not equipped or having technical difficulties will follow the last digit and fuel quota allocation until the technical issues are rectified to introduce the QR code. Sixty percent of the locations were ready to implement the new system and will be given priority in fuel distribution.” The Minister also requested all fuel stations under CEYPETCO and LIOC to adopt the system immediately and distribution would be strictly enforced at fuel stations with the QR facilities by 01 August. “We request the public to register with National Fuel Pass and Support initiative,” he said.

The Minister added that options would be given to users to register multiple vehicles under their business registration by the end of the week and in state institutions to register. Divisional Secretaries would be given access to the platform to register generators, gardening equipment, etc., that require fuel.

The Police and Divisional Secretaries will be empowered to register three-wheelers with fuel stations. The Ministry of Transport will be empowered to register private buses with SLTB depots or fuel stations.

Other services such as Health, Agriculture, Fisheries, Tourism, Industries and service providing sectors will be given access to the system to register their requirements and allocation of vehicles at fuel stations. From 01 August only the QR system quota will be in place and the last digit of the number plate system and other allocations will be invalid.

National Youth Corp & National Youth Council members and volunteers will be deployed to assist in the implementation of the programme during the next 10 days.