NAY PYI TAW, March 3, 2026 – The National Defence and Security Council (NDSC) has announced a nationwide fuel rationing system, introducing an "odd-even" driving schedule for private vehicles to manage a growing energy crisis.

The new regulations, set to take effect on March 7, are a direct response to global geopolitical instability. Authorities cited ongoing military conflicts in the Middle East as the primary cause for the disruption of maritime shipping routes, which has severely hampered the country's ability to import fuel.

The New Driving Schedule

Under the new mandate, private vehicle access to roads will be determined by the first digit of the vehicle’s license plate:

    Odd-Numbered Days: Only vehicles with plates starting with an odd number (e.g., 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) are permitted to drive.

    Even-Numbered Days: Only vehicles with plates starting with an even number (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8, 0) are permitted to drive.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and EV motorcycles are exempt from these restrictions and may continue to operate daily.

Exemptions and Essential Services

To minimize the impact on the economy and public welfare, the NDSC has exempted several categories from the rationing schedule. Public transport buses, taxis, fuel tankers, cargo trucks, construction vehicles, and emergency services—including ambulances and municipal garbage trucks—remain authorized for daily use.

Cracking Down on Hoarding

The announcement also issued a stern warning to both business owners and the general public against the stockpiling of fuel. The government has prohibited the "hoarding and reselling of fuel at inflated prices," stating that violators will face prosecution under existing laws.

The NDSC concluded the statement by noting that these measures will remain in place indefinitely until further notice.

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