August 23, Colombo (LNW): The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to reduce the price of diesel and kerosene by Rs. 25 per liter in an effort to strengthen and support the livelihoods of fishermen. This decision is part of the government’s broader strategy to revitalize the country’s fisheries industry, which has been severely affected by the ongoing economic crisis.
The reduction in fuel prices aims to minimize the impact on the industry, where a large number of fishing vessels have been forced to cease operations due to the rising cost of fuel, leaving fishermen struggling to cover their increased working capital expenses.
Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing held at the Government Information Department yesterday, Cabinet Spokesman and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana explained that the Cabinet’s approval was granted to a joint proposal put forward by the President, in his capacity as the Finance, Economic Stabilisation and National Policies Minister, and the Fisheries Minister.
The proposal includes an allowance of Rs. 25 per liter of diesel for fishing vessels that use diesel as fuel, applicable for a period of six months. Additionally, fishermen using kerosene will receive an allowance of Rs. 25 per liter for up to 15 liters per day, for a maximum of 25 days per month, for six months. This initiative, referred to as the “allowance to settle the fisheries industry,” is intended to provide much-needed relief to fishermen and help stabilize the sector.
