Public urged to reduce non-essential travel and conserve fuel amid global energy crisis

D.J. Rajakaruna, the Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), has asked people in Sri Lanka to cut back on unnecessary travel and save fuel due to the energy crisis linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. He stated, “This is not a normal situation; it is a very grave condition.” Rajakaruna urged everyone to work together by reducing non-essential trips, buying only the fuel they truly need, and using as little fuel as possible until the global situation improves. Speaking to the media on October 10, he stressed the importance of minimizing fuel use during this time. He also addressed the recent rise in fuel prices, explaining that panic buying in the country has played a major role in this increase. Rajakaruna noted that many consumers had been buying more fuel than usual over the last few days due to worries about shortages, which directly caused the prices to jump. He mentioned that if this excessive buying had not happened, fuel prices could have remained stable until the end of the month. He characterized the current situation as unusual, pointing out that global conflicts have disturbed typical energy market pricing. Rajakaruna reiterated that this energy crisis is a worldwide issue and urged the public to limit their fuel consumption. He warned that if people do not come together to manage their fuel use now, it could lead to serious problems in the future.