Opposition MP S. M. Marikkar has claimed that the price of a litre of diesel could increase by Rs. 150 in the near future, warning that the public may face a further rise in the cost of living.

Addressing a public gathering, Marikkar said the Government came to power promising relief measures such as lower electricity tariffs, reduced taxes and cheaper essential goods.

However, he alleged that instead of reducing costs, electricity tariffs had increased significantly under the current administration, while further hikes in water tariffs and fuel prices were also expected.

Marikkar claimed that the depreciation of the rupee and rising fuel prices would lead to increases in the cost of imported goods, medicines, food items and agricultural inputs in the coming weeks.

He further alleged that the country’s debt burden had worsened due to the weakening rupee, claiming that the US dollar had risen from Rs. 292 to Rs. 336 since President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assumed office.

The Opposition MP also criticised the Government’s management of the energy sector, alleging losses linked to coal imports and increased spending on private power purchases.

Marikkar claimed the Government was relying heavily on IMF assistance and warned that additional economic pressure would eventually be passed on to the public through higher prices and taxes.