Meeting on Fuel Supply: Acting President delivered an opening address

A meeting on ensuring adequate fuel supply and systematic fuel consumption was held on March 24th. The meeting was attended by Acting President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who delivered an address.

The meeting was also attended by SSPC Vice-Chairman Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Council Member Prime Minister U Nyo Saw, Executive Chief U Aung Lin Dwe, Commission Secretary General Ye Win Oo, Commission members, Union Ministers, and senior military officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief. In his opening address, the Acting President, SSPC Chairman, stated that due to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East region, countries worldwide are facing fuel shortages, and Myanmar is also making efforts to overcome this difficulty.

He noted that the traditional Myanmar New Year Thingyan water festival will be held soon. Last year, due to the Mandalay earthquake, it was requested to celebrate the festival with restrictions. This year, due to fuel limitations, the celebration of the water festival is not wanted to face difficulties.

The Acting President mentioned that to reduce domestic fuel consumption, measures have recently been implemented such as the odd-even plate system for vehicle and motorcycle usage and refueling, and a fuel refueling system using QR codes. Similarly, to reduce fuel consumption, it has already been announced that government offices will conduct their work from home every Wednesday.

He stated that it is not known how long the ongoing conflict in the Middle East will last. Therefore, to reduce fuel consumption and ensure convenient travel for the public, it is necessary to consider expanding train services and ensuring regular operation of public bus lines. He called for discussions and actions to facilitate smooth public transportation and travel as much as possible.

Following this, attendees clarified and presented information on the current status of ongoing work. In response to the presentations, the Acting President SSPC Chairman, concluded by providing additional guidance. He emphasized the need for optimal management of domestic fuel consumption, the importance of being able to stockpile reserve fuel supplies, and the need to implement conservation measures.

He also emphasized the need to ensure that fuel reaches the hands of the public who genuinely use it, and to effectively expose and take action against illicit trading and fraudulent activities to prevent black market transactions.

He also stressed the need to make concerted efforts and coordinate to procure fuel from partner countries, essential fuel must be supplied for public transportation services such as train services and highway bus services. He also highlighted that priority must be given to ensuring mandatory flight operations to cities that are difficult to reach by vehicle, such as Putao, Khamti, Myitkyina, Hommalin, Tachileik, Kalay, Sittwe, Kyaukphyu, Manaung, Myeik, and Kawthaung etc.