Colombo: There is no need to create unnecessary fear as the country maintains sufficient fuel stocks, said D.J. Rajakaruna, Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. Speaking at a media briefing held at the Government Information Department today (02), the Chairman assured the public that fuel distribution is continuing as normal and that adequate reserves are available across the country.

According to News.LK, he noted that some members of the public have experienced difficulties in obtaining fuel due to certain unscrupulous individuals hoarding fuel unnecessarily. He said similar incidents have been reported in the past and stressed that such actions are illegal and dangerous.

Police have already intervened to prevent illegal stockpiling and have stopped the collection of fuel in lorries for hoarding purposes. The Chairman emphasized that storing fuel in houses without a proper license is both unlawful and extremely hazardous. He further revealed that several individuals were arrested yesterday (01) i
n connection with such incidents, and that strict legal action will continue against offenders.

Providing an update on distribution, he stated that by 9.45 a.m. today (02), 2.253 million litres of diesel and 2.404 million litres of Octane 92 petrol had been distributed. Yesterday (01) alone, 3.081 million litres of diesel and 3.920 million litres of Octane 92 petrol were supplied islandwide.

Reiterating that all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure uninterrupted fuel distribution, the Chairman urged the public not to panic.

He also clarified that the QR system will only be implemented in the event of a genuine fuel shortage. At present, there is no such requirement. However, he stated that if the situation cannot be controlled through legal enforcement, the QR system can be activated at any time.