The Government has ruled out power cuts despite a decline in coal stocks at the Lakvijaya Power Plant in Norochcholai, assuring the public that sufficient hydropower generation is currently available to maintain an uninterrupted electricity supply.

Energy Minister Anura Karunathilaka said reduced coal stocks had prompted authorities to limit coal-fired generation at the plant, but stressed that the situation had not affected the overall electricity supply.

Two coal shipments are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka shortly, with the first vessel due today (4) and the second on 12 September. Coal-fired power generation is expected to return to normal once the coal from the two shipments is unloaded.

The Minister stressed that there was currently no need for power cuts and urged the public not to be unnecessarily concerned over the reduced coal stocks.

However, Education Secretary of the Frontline Socialist Party Pubudu Jagoda claimed that the shortage of coal had created a serious challenge for electricity generation.

Jagoda made the remarks while speaking to the media after submitting a request to the Public Utilities Commission against any future increase in electricity tariffs.