In Sri Lanka, inflation means food shortages, blackouts — and days-long lines for gas

https://www.npr.org/2022/08/03/ [login to see] /in-sri-lanka-inflation-means-food-shortages-blackouts-and-days-long-lines-for-ga
Instead of going to school, 12-year-old Susil Michael is guarding her family's car at a gas station in Sri Lanka's capital.

Her sisters and parents are all taking turns. They've been waiting in line to fill up their gas tank for four days, sleeping in their car. They're not actually allowed to refuel for another day – Sri Lanka has implemented a gas rationing system based on license plates, similar to what parts of the United States did in the 1970s oil crisis – but the Michael family lined up early. There are thousands of cars and rickshaws in front of them.

"I don't like it. It's exhausting. It's hot and we can't afford food," Susil says.

Lots of countries are dealing with rising prices. Sri Lankans are among those suffering the most. Inflation in the Indian Ocean island nation now tops 60%. Food prices have nearly doubled. There are rolling blackouts, food shortages and political unrest.