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Sri Lankan minister urges public not to panic over fuel shortage

Sri Lanka's minister of petroleum resources development, Arjuna Ranatunga on Monday urged the public not to panic over reports of a shortage of fuel. 

Mr Ranatunga was quoted by the Colombo Page as saying that the state fuel supplier, Ceylon Petroleum Corporation "is maintaining sufficient stocks for the needs of the consumers". 

"It was observed that there was anxiety among the public. However, we are now able to meet 80% of the total requirement," he added. 

"Therefore, I urge the public not to have any undue fears and use the fuel as usual." 

Reports of a fuel shortage arose after a petroleum import by Lanka OIC was turned back due to a failure to meet adequate standards. 

Many fuel stations have remained closed, the Sunday Times reported however, over insufficient stocks. 

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