Govt. to issue circular requesting State sector to use fuel, electricity sparingly

The Government will issue a special circular to all the State institutions and department heads today, instructing to use fuel and electricity sparingly, amidst the escalating energy crisis.

Public Services, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry Secretary J.J. Ratnasiri said the relevant circular will be issued today, with an aim to save the scarce energy sources.

The new instructions reportedly were issued at the request of the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), in light of the prevailing energy crisis in the country. 

He instructed State heads to refrain from using vehicles for non-essential travel and to limit inviting officials who use Government vehicles for special conferences and discussions scheduled to be held in Colombo.

The Ministry Secretary pointed out that such events and discussions will be held via online in future, instead of summoning Government officials for meetings in Colombo.

State institutions and departments are to be instructed to minimise the use of air conditioners and unnecessary lights as much as possible.

Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila on Friday said energy shortage is inevitable amidst a worsening foreign exchange situation.