Fuel stocks being withheld to increase prices

The Spokesperson of the United Trade Union Federation, Ananda Palitha alleges that the authorities are limiting the supply of fuel despite the availability of stocks in order to increase the fuel prices again. 

Accordingly, he stated that there is enough diesel stocks in Sri Lanka as of currently, in addition to another diesel cargo being due to arrive on 29th May. Moreover, reservoirs are full due to rains, he added.

However, the authorities also have paid about 3.3 million US dollars as demurrage costs for a crude oil shipment, and the amount that is required to pay and unload a gas shipment has been used for the crude oil cargo instead.

Pointing out that the Prime Minister has not been able to prevent from funds still being looted, he further stated that the henchmen of the Government are not in queues for diesel or petrol, as they have already been provided with the necessary amount.

He added that however, the current fuel queues must be put to an end as there is enough fuel for those in queue, and alleged that stocks are being withheld to increase prices.