Sri Lanka has declared every Wednesday a public holiday as authorities move to conserve fuel amid rising shortages. The decision comes as global tensions linked to the US and Israel conflict with Iran disrupt oil supplies.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced the measure during an emergency meeting with senior government officials on Monday. He urged the country to prepare for the worst while maintaining cautious optimism about the situation.
The crisis has intensified after disruptions affected the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route. The strait previously carried millions of barrels of oil daily, with nearly ninety percent destined for Asian markets.
Asia remains the largest oil-importing region, making countries highly vulnerable to supply disruptions and price shocks. Governments across the region are now introducing strict measures to manage consumption and stabilize energy demand.
Asian Nations Roll Out Austerity Measures
Several Asian countries have introduced aggressive energy-saving policies to cope with the crisis. Thailand has encouraged citizens to wear lighter clothing to reduce reliance on air conditioning in workplaces.
Myanmar has restricted private vehicle usage by allowing operation only on alternate days based on license plate numbers. Bangladesh has adjusted academic calendars and introduced planned power outages to conserve electricity nationwide.
The Philippines has directed some government employees to work from home at least once weekly to cut fuel consumption. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has also banned non-essential travel in the public sector to reduce expenses.
Authorities have introduced cash assistance programs targeting vulnerable groups such as farmers, fishermen, and transport operators. Vietnam has urged citizens to minimize travel, use public transport, and avoid unnecessary personal vehicle use.
Sri Lanka Expands Domestic Restrictions
Sri Lanka’s four-day workweek will also apply to schools and universities but exclude essential public services. Authorities selected Wednesday to avoid extended closures that could disrupt critical government operations.
The government has also enforced a National Fuel Pass system to ration fuel purchases across the country. Officials capped fuel at fifteen litres for private cars and five litres for motorcycles, sparking public dissatisfaction.
Many citizens have criticized the fuel quotas, arguing they limit daily mobility and economic activity significantly. Authorities previously introduced similar rationing measures during the 2022 economic crisis when foreign reserves collapsed.
The government continues monitoring the situation closely while balancing conservation efforts with public needs and economic stability. Officials maintain that strict measures remain necessary to navigate the ongoing global energy disruption.
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