Summary
- Sri Lanka declares Wednesdays a holiday for public institutions to conserve fuel.
- The move follows oil supply disruptions linked to tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel.
- Several Asian countries are adopting austerity measures to manage rising energy costs.
NAIROBI, Kenya- Sri Lanka has declared every Wednesday a public holiday for state institutions in a bid to conserve fuel, as the country braces for possible shortages triggered by escalating tensions involving Iran, United States, and Israel.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced the measure during an emergency meeting on Monday, warning that the country must prepare for worsening conditions.
“We must prepare for the worst, but hope for the best,” he said.
Oil Supply Shock Hits Asia
The crisis stems from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route that supplies millions of barrels of fuel to Asia.
Nearly 90 pc of oil and gas transported through the strait last year was destined for Asian markets, making the region particularly vulnerable.
Oil prices have surged to around $100 per barrel, putting pressure on economies already dealing with inflation and energy demands.
Asian Countries Roll Out Emergency Measures
Governments across Asia are implementing strict energy-saving strategies to cushion against the crisis.
In Thailand, citizens are being encouraged to wear lighter clothing to reduce air conditioning use.
Myanmar has introduced a system where private vehicles operate on alternate days based on licence plates.
In the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered some government staff to work from home and banned non-essential travel.
The government has also introduced financial support for vulnerable groups, including tricycle drivers and farmers.
In Vietnam, authorities are urging citizens to reduce travel, carpool, and use public transport more frequently as they also anticipate significant flights cuts from April.
Sri Lanka’s Fuel Rationing Returns
Beyond the new four-day work week, Sri Lanka has reintroduced fuel rationing through a National Fuel Pass system.
Motorists are now limited to 15 litres for private cars and 5 litres for motorcycles, sparking frustration among some citizens.
The system was previously used during the country’s 2022 economic crisis, when Sri Lanka faced severe shortages of fuel and foreign reserves.
Officials say essential services such as healthcare and immigration will not be affected by the new holiday policy.
Authorities also clarified that Wednesday was selected to avoid a three-day shutdown of public services.
