Following decisions taken at a discussion held under the patronage of the President, a new fuel management program is set to be implemented to ensure the sustainability of the fishing sector amid current challenges, according to Dr. B. K. Kolita Kamal Jinadasa, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources.
Under this program, fuel will be distributed to multi-day fishing vessels through designated fishing ports. Authorities will also take steps to systematically regulate fuel allocation by verifying vessel travel data through the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS).
For one-day and small-scale fishing vessels, fuel will be provided through nearly 100 filling stations registered with the Fisheries Department, based on recommendations from fisheries officers and following the existing distribution methodology. Approximately 30,000 such vessels operate daily, and fuel will be issued once every five days at a rate of 25 liters per vessel per day. Special attention has been given to extending necessary support to fishermen in remote areas such as Delft Island and Bathalangunduwa.
In addition, the Secretary noted that fuel required for generators used in fish processing factories and aquaculture farms can be obtained through arrangements with the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (Ceypetco).In line with broader government decisions, Wednesday will be observed as a public holiday, while essential services within the Ministry will continue with a limited number of staff.
