Sri Lanka has announced an unusual but significant step to deal with an emerging fuel crisis, declaring every Wednesday a public holiday in a bid to conserve energy as global oil supplies face disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The move, which effectively introduces a four-day workweek for much of the public sector, will come into effect from March 18.
According to government officials, all state institutions, along with schools, colleges and universities, will remain closed on Wednesdays. However, essential services such as healthcare, ports, water supply and emergency operations will continue to function without interruption. The decision is aimed at reducing fuel consumption, particularly by cutting down on daily commuting and administrative operations that require transportation.
Authorities said the selection of Wednesday as the weekly holiday was deliberate, ensuring that offices do not remain shut for three consecutive days, which could hamper governance and economic activity. The policy is expected to remain in place until the situation stabilises, as Sri Lanka braces for potential shortages in the coming weeks.
The move comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions involving Iran, which have severely impacted global oil supply chains. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for energy shipments, has seen disruptions, leading to rising crude prices and uncertainty across import-dependent economies, particularly in Asia. Sri Lanka, which relies heavily on imported fuel, is especially vulnerable to such shocks.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, while addressing an emergency meeting with officials, underlined the seriousness of the situation and urged preparedness. The government has already rolled out several measures to manage the crisis, including increasing fuel prices, introducing a rationing system, and encouraging remote work wherever feasible.
In addition, a National Fuel Pass system has been implemented to regulate fuel distribution and prevent hoarding, with limits placed on the quantity individuals can purchase. Long queues at fuel stations across the country have signalled growing anxiety among citizens, reminiscent of previous economic hardships linked to energy shortages.
Sri Lanka is also in talks with countries such as India and Russia to secure uninterrupted fuel supplies as it navigates the unfolding crisis. The government has appealed to both public and private sector organisations to adopt energy-saving practices, with officials even urging private firms to consider following the four-day workweek model.
The decision highlights the wider impact of geopolitical tensions on everyday life, as countries across Asia adopt stringent conservation measures to cope with tightening energy supplies. For Sri Lanka, still recovering from past economic challenges, the success of such steps could prove critical in maintaining stability in the face of global uncertainty.
