The Ministry of Energy has decided to instruct private fuel distribution companies to ensure the uninterrupted distribution of fuel.

Energy Minister Anura Karunathilaka said the Ministry Secretary is expected to issue a written notification to the relevant companies today (06).

Reports indicate that fuel distribution companies operating in Sri Lanka have restricted their distribution activities, citing losses incurred from fuel sales due to the increase in global fuel prices.

As a result, fuel shortages have been reported at many filling stations across the island, with long queues also being observed as motorists wait to obtain fuel.

In response to an inquiry made by Ada Derana, Minister Karunathilaka said a decision had been taken to instruct the relevant companies to ensure fuel is distributed without shortages amid the current situation.

He added that the companies are also expected to be instructed to maintain minimum fuel stocks.

Meanwhile, necessary instructions have been issued to increase fuel supplies to filling stations operated by the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) as a measure to address the ongoing fuel shortage.

A special discussion is also scheduled to be held tomorrow (07) regarding the issue.

The discussion is expected to be attended by officials of the Ministry of Energy, officials of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chairman of the Petroleum Dealers' Association Kusum Sandanayake said the association is urging the Government to provide an immediate solution to the ongoing fuel issue.