Fuel distributors say the continued reliance on the odd-even vehicle numbering mechanism, despite a partial easing announced from April 1, has created confusion at ground level, with inconsistent enforcement across filling stations.
Petroleum Distributors Association (PDA) Executive Committee Member D.V. Shantha Silva said the lack of clear, uniform guidelines has left both station operators and motorists struggling to navigate the system.
“While authorities announced that both odd- and even-numbered vehicles could access fuel under the QR quota, the reality on the ground is far from consistent,” Silva told Daily Mirror. “Different stations are following different practices, creating uncertainty and frustration.”
Distributors argue that the overlap between digital fuel quotas and the odd-even access rule has complicated what was intended to be a streamlined system. They say motorists are still facing delays and confusion, particularly during urgent situations.
The PDA has called on authorities to introduce a clear and uniform policy, warning that the current ambiguity is placing additional pressure on fuel station operators, who are often forced to manage public dissatisfaction.
The concerns come amid growing tensions between distributors and authorities, with industry representatives recently staging a silent protest outside the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, citing unresolved operational issues and lack of clarity in directives.
Critics say the situation highlights broader concerns about policy coherence, warning that without consistent implementation, the QR-based system risks losing its intended efficiency at a time when effective fuel management remains crucial.
