Fuel price hike: widespread protests across country demanding relief

Protests are being staged across the country against last night's sharp fuel price hike disrupting normalcy, leaving thousands of passengers stranded as private bus operators stayed away from operation today.

Protests were staged in Hingurakgoda, Baddegama, Digana, Galle, Madampe, Gampola, Kandy, Kegalle, Mathugama, Avissawella and Hatton against the fuel price hike. Train operation services were also limited due to a technical delay from Rambukkana.

Last night, Ceylon Petroleum Corporation decided to increase fuel prices with effect from midnight yesterday. Accordingly, the revised prices are as follows: 92 Octane Petrol : Up by Rs. 84/- (New Price: Rs. 338/-), 95 Octane (Euro 4) Petrol : Up by Rs. 90/- (New Price: Rs. 373/-), Diesel : Up by Rs. 113/- (New Price: Rs. 289/- and Lanka Super Diesel 4 Star Euro 4 : Up by Rs. 75/- (New Price: Rs. 329/-)

With private bus operators protesting, passengers were forced to access train service. 

In Hatton, protesters alleged despite the prices of fuel being increased sharply, there has been a shortage of fuel supplies in the region and many fuel stations have been closed. 

Private bus operations for other districts were also disrupted today as private bus operators put forward a proposal to increase bus fares by forty per cent. (Pix by G. Kishanthan from Hatton)