The Petroleum Dealers' Association has urged the government to take immediate action to ensure a continuous supply of fuel to filling stations.

Deputy Chairman of the Association, Kusum Sandanayake stated that several difficulties have arisen as a result of filling stations not receiving adequate quantities of fuel.

He said that, to date, all members of the association across the island had informed them that filling stations operated by foreign companies were not receiving sufficient quantities of fuel. He added that the association was currently exercising patience and hoped that the matter would be resolved very soon.

“If a particular filling station does not receive its required quantity of fuel, its revenue is tied solely to fuel sales. The moment fuel sales cease, major operational challenges arise in maintaining the filling station,” Sandanayake said.

He explained that electricity bills, employee salaries, and other expenses still had to be paid, while loan installments owed to banks also had to be settled. According to him, all these matters had reached an extremely difficult stage.

“Consequently, we hope the Minister will intervene, discuss cooperatively with these foreign companies, and resolve this issue,” he said.

Sandanayake further stated that, until the issue was resolved, the association was fully prepared to distribute whatever quantity of fuel was received to consumers as quickly as possible.

“I believe a large number of filling stations remain closed today. However, every filling station that received fuel has commenced sales. I trust that fuel will be received today, enabling them to resume selling fuel in those areas. This is how operations are being conducted during this difficult period,” he said.

He further stated that he believed the government understood the situation very well and was also facing major challenges, including the difficulty of paying such a large amount through the Treasury at once.

“Nevertheless, whether payment can be made or not, the government must hold discussions with these foreign companies and resolve this issue expeditiously,” Sandanayake said.