Myanmar's military government will restrict private vehicle use starting Saturday to conserve fuel as Middle East shipping disruptions threaten energy supplies. Private cars and motorcycles — except electric vehicles — will only be allowed on roads every other day based on license plate numbers, with even-numbered plates operating on even dates and odd-numbered plates on odd dates.

Fuel shortages have already emerged in parts of the country, with long queues forming at filling stations in cities including Mandalay, about 245 kilometers north of the capital Naypyidaw. Supplies have tightened in Shan State after imports from neighboring Thailand were halted, according to local media reports. The ruling National Defence and Security Council cited "armed conflicts in the Middle East" that have caused obstructions and blockades along maritime traffic used for importing fuel by oil tankers.

The restrictions will remain in place until further notice, with public transport, fuel trucks and other essential services exempt from the curbs. Authorities also warned against hoarding or reselling fuel at higher prices, saying violators will face legal action. It's unclear how much fuel Myanmar currently has in reserve, and junta spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun didn't respond to requests for comment.