Sri Lanka declares Wednesdays off as Asian countries try to conserve fuel

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete March 17, 2026 at 04:26 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

In response to potential fuel shortages stemming from the US and Israel's war with Iran, Sri Lanka has declared Wednesdays a public holiday for government institutions, schools, and universities, excluding essential services. This measure aims to conserve fuel, and motorists are now subject to fuel rationing via a National Fuel Pass. Other Asian countries are also implementing austerity measures. Thailand is encouraging less air conditioning use, Myanmar restricts private vehicle use, Bangladesh has adjusted holidays and introduced blackouts, the Philippines mandates work-from-home days, and Vietnam urges citizens to reduce travel. These actions reflect the region's dependence on oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz, which is now affected by the conflict.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Myanmar 40% Philippines 40% Bangladesh 40% Thailand 40% Israel 50% United States 50% Ferdinand Marcos Jr 50% Strait of Hormuz 60% Iran 60% Asia ×270% Anura Kumara Dissanayake 70% Sri Lanka ×690%

Keywords

sri lanka 100% fuel conservation 90% energy crisis 80% fuel shortages 80% asian countries 70% public holiday 70% fuel rationing 70% energy conservation 60% austerity measures 60%