Sri Lanka announces 4-day week for public sector to cut fuel use

Sri Lanka on Monday (March 16, 2026) announced a four-day working week — declaring Wednesdays off — for government institutions, schools, and universities, to conserve fuel as the escalating tensions in West Asia threaten a severe energy crisis.

Addressing a media conference in Colombo, the Commissioner General of Essential Services also encouraged the private sector to consider the option as the island nation, like many others, braces for possible fuel shortages. All government functions will be put on hold temporarily, officials said.

However, those employed in essential services, including the health sector, ports, water supply and customs departments, will function all days.

The announcement came a day after the government switched to a QR code-aided digital system to ration retail fuel sales, limiting weekly quotas to consumers according to the vehicle they use.