The police have announced that fuel will not be provided to people who cut queues at fuel stations. DIG W.P.J. Senadheera, head of Traffic and Road Safety, warned that queue jumpers will be refused fuel. The message was reported by AdaDerana on March 17, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119817
The Ministry of Digital Economy says the National Fuel Pass (NFP) system disruptions are being resolved and are expected to be fully fixed by tomorrow. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119816
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced ongoing high-level talks on energy management amid the Middle East conflict to safeguard the economy and essential services. Plans are being implemented to optimize energy resources and ensure uninterrupted economic activity and the continued operation of critical services. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119815
Sri Lanka government declares Wednesday as a weekly holiday for government sector employees starting March 18, 2026, citing fuel concerns. The measure also mentions schools and universities, and the private sector is urged to adopt a similar arrangement. Reported by AdaDerana on March 17, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119814
Sri Lanka Navy intercepted a multi-day fishing trawler off Beruwala and brought it to Dikkowita Harbour, where over 250 kilograms of cocaine were found, disclosed on March 16, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119813
NTC chairman P. A. Chandrapala announced plans to increase weekly fuel quotas for passenger buses, setting a range of 60 to 360 litres. The move aims to support passenger transport; details pending. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119811
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK would not be drawn into a broader Iran conflict but would work with European and other allies to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, acknowledging the effort would be difficult. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119810
LPBOA president Gemunu Wijeratne warns that only about 50% of private buses can operate if fuel is distributed via SLTB depots. He says private passenger buses face significant difficulties obtaining fuel from SLTB depots, signaling potential drastic reductions in private bus service. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119809
The Vehicle Importers Association of Sri Lanka (VIASL) reports difficulties with the government’s QR code–based fuel quota system for fuel distribution. VIASL president Prasad Manage says the scheme is causing challenges for vehicle importers, highlighting operational issues amid the new quota mechanism. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119808
Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe said a QR code–based fuel quota system would not be necessary if the public conserves fuel during the current crisis. He urged disciplined fuel usage to prevent the need for stricter controls. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=119807