The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has announced that the National Fuel Pass (QR) system for petrol vehicles will be officially reinstated starting midnight tonight (April 18).
Key Details of the Resumption
The temporary suspension of the QR system, which was implemented on April 11 to facilitate travel during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festive season, has now concluded.
- Restoration of Quotas: According to CPC Chairman D.J. Rajakaruna, petrol vehicle owners will return to their previous weekly fuel quotas.
- Odd-Even Plate System: In addition to the QR requirement, the “Odd-Even” system remains in effect. Motorists must visit fuel stations on specific days based on the last digit of their vehicle registration number.
- Diesel Vehicles: It is important to note that the QR system for diesel vehicles remained active throughout the festive period and continues without change.
How the Odd-Even System Works
To manage crowds and ensure a steady supply, the following schedule applies based on your license plate’s final digit:
| Last Digit of Plate | Authorized Days | Next Available Date |
| 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 (Even Numbers) | Even-numbered dates | April 20, 22, 24… |
| 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 (Odd Numbers) | Odd-numbered dates | April 19, 21, 23… |
Note: Since tomorrow, April 19, is an odd-numbered date, only vehicles with plates ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9 will be eligible to pump fuel starting from midnight tonight.
Why is the QR System Back?
The decision to revert to the quota system is largely driven by the need for strategic resource management. With ongoing volatility in the Middle East affecting global oil supplies and shipping costs, the CPC aims to:
- Prevent Stockpiling: Ensuring that available fuel is distributed fairly among all citizens.
- Manage Foreign Exchange: Regulating consumption helps the government manage the high costs associated with fuel imports during regional instability.
- Eliminate Queues: The Odd-Even system is designed to prevent the long congestion seen at pumping stations during unrestricted periods.
Pro-Tip for Motorists
You can check your remaining weekly quota by dialling *727# from your registered mobile number or by logging into the National Fuel Pass portal. Ensure you have your QR code ready on your smartphone or printed out before reaching the pump to avoid delays.
