• SJB says flaws in tender procedure led to substandard coal imports

The main parliamentary opposition SJB stated they are studying what action could be taken against the Government over the alleged importation of substandard coal for electricity generation.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, SJB National Organiser Tissa Attanayake said  the opposition is holding discussions on possible action against the Government. He said that despite the Government maintaining there were no errors in the tender process, the opposition has identified three major shortcomings. “First, the tender was not called during the usual period that had been followed for years. Second, the eligibility conditions for companies to qualify were relaxed by the current administration, allowing inexperienced firms to submit bids. Third, several Indian companies that were new to the sector and lacked experience were allowed to participate in the tender process.”

"The Government continues to deny any failure from their end and places responsibility entirely on the supplier. But that is not what they should do. They should also accept their own role in the matter. Even though the Ministry states that they would impose a fine on the supplier, can they reverse damage caused to engines and machinery? The supplier will pay a fine and escape. But the people will have to pay higher electricity tariffs for years." he added. 

Sri Lanka’s energy sector has come under strain in recent weeks following claims that low-quality coal imported for power generation has reduced national electricity output.