Sri Lanka to issue fuel based on license plate numbers from tomorrow

2026-03-18 - 06:44

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has announced that a new fuel distribution system will come into effect starting tomorrow (March 19), based on the last digit of vehicle license plate numbers. According to this system, vehicles with license plates ending in an even number or zero will be allowed to obtain fuel only on even-numbered days. Vehicles with license plates ending in odd numbers will receive fuel on odd-numbered days. This measure is being introduced under the QR code system, which was reintroduced by the government on March 16, 2026, to manage fuel distribution more efficiently. Authorities stated that the decision comes in response to disruptions in fuel supply routes caused by the ongoing war situation in the Middle East. At the same time, fuel demand within the country has increased significantly. Due to these challenges, the government has emphasized the need to carefully manage and conserve existing fuel reserves. The reintroduction of the QR code system and the new license plate-based schedule are expected to help control fuel usage and ensure fair distribution among the public.