NEWSGovt. to provide jet fuel to overcome kerosene shortage

The government yesterday undertook to make available jet fuel at the same price as kerosene (Rs. 87 a litre) to overcome the current kerosene shortage.

Energy Ministry Secretary K.R. Olga told The Island that there was no harm in using jet fuel for domestic purposes; internationally the word, kerosene, was not used, she added.

A jet fuel shipment was expected to arrive on 20 Jan., she said, noting that jet fuel was much more expensive and would be processed and sold as kerosene at a loss.

Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila earlier said that Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery would be closed from Monday (today) due to lack of foreign exchange to purchase crude oil.

The Ministry says the refinery will recommence operations before 30 Jan., as the supplies from the long-time Singapore contractor will begin on 26 Jan. It has assured that there will be no fuel shortage in the country.