Sri Lanka’s government is weighing a dramatic four-day public sector work week as officials scramble for urgent solutions to conserve fuel, reduce commuting demand, and keep essential state services running during the ongoing energy shortage.
Sri Lanka’s government is reportedly examining the possibility of introducing a four-day work week as part of emergency policy measures aimed at managing the country’s continuing fuel shortage. Officials are exploring the proposal as a way to reduce fuel consumption linked to commuting and government transport while maintaining essential public services across the country.
The proposal is expected to be taken up at a special high-level meeting scheduled for tomorrow at 3.00 pm at the Presidential Secretariat. The meeting, which will be held under the patronage of the President, is expected to focus on immediate strategies to manage limited fuel resources while ensuring that critical government operations continue without disruption.
According to informed sources, heads of government departments have already been instructed to attend the meeting and prepare for discussions on managing fuel distribution within the public sector. Officials are expected to review possible policy responses that could reduce overall fuel demand while protecting key administrative services.
Department leaders have also been directed to present proposals explaining how fuel allocations can be prioritized for essential services. Authorities plan to examine existing fuel consumption patterns across government institutions and identify practical measures to limit unnecessary fuel use while ensuring that vital government operations remain functional.
Alongside fuel allocation strategies, the feasibility of introducing a four-day work week in the public sector will also be examined during the meeting. Government officials believe that reducing the number of working days each week could significantly lower fuel usage linked to daily commuting and official transport requirements.
In preparation for the discussion, department heads have been asked to submit detailed proposals outlining how such a work schedule could operate if approved. These proposals are expected to address possible operational adjustments, staffing requirements, and administrative arrangements needed to ensure that public services continue without interruption.
