QR code fuel system will increase burden on people – Consumer Rights Group

16 March 2026 10:03 am Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 15 Bookmark

CHATURANGA PRADEEP SAMARAWICKRAMA Follow

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Colombo, March 16 (Daily Mirror) - The re-imposition of the QR code system for fuel distribution will increase the burden on the public amidst the rising cost of living, Chairman of the National Movement for Consumer Rights Protection (NMCRP) Ranjith Vithanage said.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Vithanage said Sri Lanka is already being severely affected in obtaining essential energy resources such as fuel and LP gas due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.

He said people have been facing various difficulties in obtaining fuel for their daily needs, while the cost of living continues to rise as the country’s economy gradually recovers.

Vithanage claimed that delays in taking proper management decisions by the government, or implementing unsuitable policies, could place further pressure on consumers.

He warned that the sudden re-introduction of the QR code system has already led to long queues at fuel stations and may create additional complications for the public.

According to him, there is also a risk that existing fuel stocks could fall into the hands of middlemen and rackets who may attempt to make excessive profits.“The government should have established a proper mechanism before re-introducing the QR code system,” Vithanage said, noting that computer literacy remains low among certain segments of the population.

He pointed out that many senior citizens lack the knowledge required to obtain QR codes and often rely on others to generate them, which could lead to their fuel quotas being misused.

Recalling previous experiences with the system, Vithanage also warned of the possible emergence of black markets or fuel mafias if strict monitoring is not maintained.

He said the government should conduct a proper risk assessment before continuing the QR code system and ensure fuel is distributed fairly without allowing external parties to profit illegally.

The NMCRP also urged authorities to take action under the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) Act to prevent illegal activities and price manipulation.Vithanage added that the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) should also intervene to prevent corruption and ensure transparency in fuel distribution.

He further warned that if tensions between Israel and Iran escalate further, the impact on consumers could worsen.

With the Sinhala and Hindu New Year season approaching, Vithanage said that prices of several goods and services have already begun to rise. He pointed out that coconut oil prices have increased following the recent diesel price hike, which could affect household expenses during the festive season.

Comments - 15

Ts Monday, 16 March 2026 10:14 AM

Indeed, a very positive step in rationing the fuel at this point of time giving an equal opportunity to all vehicle owners. How could it be a burden?

4 29

Observer Monday, 16 March 2026 11:18 AM

Everything is a burden to the opposition and their corrupt followers. SJB Sajith said that this QR system was applied too late. Whom to believe?

3 28

Iwazaru Monday, 16 March 2026 10:23 AM

Can someone name three things the "National Movement for Consumer Rights Protection (NMCRP)" has done for the public. This is a virtual organisation (?) and does not even have a official address or office. This is Daily Mirror's source of information.

2 14

Jo Monday, 16 March 2026 10:29 AM

Can you bring some fuel to ease the situation. Just shut up without grumbling on everything.

3 15

Saradiel Monday, 16 March 2026 10:31 AM

This is war time and certain things are beyond control. If the war continues, will definitely get worse. Some countries have already closed schools and work from home in place. Have to manage somehow. We only hope that the government will do their best to handle the situation properly.

2 18

Sam J Monday, 16 March 2026 10:43 AM

National Movement for Consumer Rights Protection, where were you sir when people are faced with issues at private hospitals? when people are duped by banks and other financial institutions? Why are you speaking about with such empathy, do you have a better system to curtail the sitaution?

1 20

roobarbie Monday, 16 March 2026 11:02 AM

So, where is your alternative better proposal. You quangos are just whinging for everything that the government brings out to help the public. The system has received praised from everyone else, but it is not good enough for you. So, stop bellyaching, submit your better proposal to the government instead of stirring up the people with your rhetoric.

2 10

joshua Monday, 16 March 2026 11:21 AM

Nonsense talks by headless groups. We are dependent on other countries for fuel. You morons should read papers or watch TV to see that there is a war going on and fuel supplies have been disrupted. Without rationing how can we give fuel to all people? Get your heads checked up .

2 17

Roshanaly Monday, 16 March 2026 11:29 AM

Very wise decision by the government. Better to have some fuel than waiting in the que for 3days.

2 19

Punchi Thusithaya (in Hunduwa) Monday, 16 March 2026 12:00 PM

Are there other South Asian countries, presently restrict fuel consumption by increasing prices and introducing QR ?

32 1

Dr Tissa Fernando Monday, 16 March 2026 01:26 PM

Yes.

1 15

Foot note Monday, 16 March 2026 01:48 PM

Especially when stocks already purchased at lower rates are enough till the end of April !!! QR may be OK but price increase absolutely absurd. No full tank Fullstop.

5 0

So sad Monday, 16 March 2026 03:41 PM

Go to Google and with one click (if you know how - I doubt from your comment) you will find a list of about 50 countries in the world.

0 14

Kumar Monday, 16 March 2026 02:01 PM

So if you have a better idea please share, otherwise keep SHUT

1 18

Ram P Monday, 16 March 2026 03:00 PM

There are learned Idiots who criticise/question all government decisions without offering any opinion that they think will be a acceptable/suitable solution. The Vithanage has criticised the government decision on many fronts without suggesting a suitable way out.

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