New petrol for tuk-tuks from next month

• Three-wheeler fuel will be Rs. 8 less than regular petrol price
• Identifies 100 fuel distribution stations, installation of new tanks ongoing
• Ministry yet to come up with a brand name
• Soon to be put through Economic Committee, Finance Ministry and Cabinet 

By Charumini de Silva

In a move to provide relief to the majority of the public, Petroleum Resources Development Minister Arjuna Ranatunga yesterday said they will launch a special fuel for the three-wheelers next month, which is marked Rs. 8 less than the normal petrol price.

“Under my guidance, we have now developed a special petroleum, particularly for the three-wheelers, which will be released to the market next month,” he told journalists in Colombo yesterday.

According to the Minister, they have already identified 100 fuel distribution stations to provide the new petrol for the tuk-tuks, which has now become a key transportation mode in the country, with many depending on it for their livelihoods. 

“This special petrol has a low octane level. It was developed locally with the support of some of the key industry players. We have done test trials for both old and new three-wheelers, and it has been very successful. We hope to release this fuel for Rs. 8 less than the 92-Octane,” he added.

Ranatunga said they were yet to decide on a brand name for the newly developed petrol.

“While deciding on the name and completing installation of the special tanks for this fuel at petrol stations, we hope to submit it to the Economic Committee, Finance Ministry and Cabinet for approval,” he stated.