Minister of Transport Dilum Amunugama says the prevailing crisis situation is worsening each day. Speaking to media in Kandy, Minister Amunugama said he does expect the prices of fuel at Ceylon Petroleum Corporation filling stations to increase although rates at Lanka IOC filling stations were increased.
Commenting on rail fares, the Transport Minister said Sri Lanka Railways is unable to settle the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation bill with the existing rail fares due to the fuel price hike adding therefore rail fares will have to be revised to cover the fuel cost.
Minister Amunugama noted if rail fares are not increased, overtime allowances, which a large number of employees obtain will have to be reduced.
He added the prevailing crisis is worsening and oil prices are expected to increase further in the world market.
Minister Amunugama said Lanka IOC had to increase fuel prices due to the price hike in the world market.
He said if prices are not increased it will result in a loss adding the Treasury will look into how long Sri Lanka Railways can operate while running at a loss.
On a separate note, commenting on statements made by the 11 political parties affiliated with the government claiming the government will lose its majority, Minister Dilum Amunugama questioned what the group expects to happen after the government loses its majority.
He added the government will topple and the country will be destroyed.
Minister Amunugama claimed the Chief Prelates will understand whether they will bless those who are ruining the country or working to uplift the country.
He added when the group couldn’t achieve their personal objectives and strayed from the right path they are now attempting to make the government lose its two thirds majority as well.
