The Ministry of Power and Energy has taken immediate action to address the looming fuel shortage crisis in Sri Lanka. In an effort to ensure a steady supply of fuel, Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera has instructed the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals Limited (CPSTL) to continue fuel deliveries throughout the upcoming weekend.

The decision comes after it was revealed that both CPC and CPSTL had ceased operations on Sundays and public holidays over the past four months in an attempt to cut down on overtime expenses.

However, this cost-saving measure has resulted in a depletion of fuel stocks, leaving many filling stations in a precarious situation.

The shortage crisis has been compounded by fuel stations' failure to place orders for new supplies since last Saturday.

This lack of foresight was driven by the anticipation of a potential reduction in fuel prices. Consequently, fuel stations have been operating with minimal stocks, unable to meet the sudden surge in demand from consumers following the recent price revision and quota increase.