DENPASAR, Bali — Bali is introducing an odd-even system for fuel purchases as authorities try to reduce long queues, control demand and distribute supplies more evenly while the island continues to recover from fuel shortages.

The temporary measure will take effect on Saturday, October 17, and is currently scheduled to run through October 19.

Under the system, motorists will be allowed to purchase subsidised fuel according to the final digit of their vehicle’s licence plate and the calendar date.

Vehicles with odd-numbered plates will be served on October 17, while those with even-numbered plates will be allowed to refuel on October 18. Odd-numbered plates will again be served on October 19.

The Bali provincial government requested the measure after long queues continued at filling stations despite additional fuel shipments, extended operating hours and efforts to accelerate distribution.

The system is intended to prevent motorists from repeatedly filling up during the shortage and to give more vehicles an opportunity to access available supplies.

Purchase limits will also remain in place. Cars will be allowed to buy a maximum of 20 litres per transaction, while motorcycles will be limited to 3 litres.

Selected filling stations in Bali will continue operating 24 hours as Pertamina works to replenish supplies and reduce queues. Police and military personnel are also being deployed at some stations to help manage traffic and monitor fuel distribution.

The latest restrictions come after several days of disruption that have affected daily travel, tourism transport, schools and universities across parts of Bali.

Pertamina has been bringing additional Pertalite and Pertamax to the island in stages and increasing tanker capacity to speed up deliveries from fuel terminals to filling stations.

Authorities have repeatedly urged residents not to panic buy or stockpile fuel, saying such behaviour can worsen shortages and create longer queues.

The odd-even system is currently planned as a three-day measure and will be evaluated after October 19.

Authorities have not said that the policy will automatically end after that date, meaning it could be adjusted or extended depending on fuel availability and conditions at filling stations.

Motorists are advised to check their licence plate number and fuel availability before travelling to a station while the temporary system is in effect.