Internal sources have raised red flags over a controversial coal tender awarded to a company allegedly lacking industry experience, warning that Sri Lanka could face imminent blackouts due to the supply of substandard fuel.
A Questionable Award
In September 2025, the coal tender was awarded to Trident Chemphar, a subsidiary of the Indian pharmaceutical giant Aurobindo Pharmaceuticals. While the company secured the bid with the lowest price, experts question their technical expertise in the global coal trade. Concerns are further compounded by reports that one of the company’s stakeholders has previously faced legal action in India regarding financial irregularities.
Controversial Local Representation
The local representation of Trident Chemphar has also come under scrutiny. The agent, Sanath Bandara Jayasundara, is a former cricket analyst currently serving a multi-year ban by the ICC. Furthermore, social media and political circles are buzzing with allegations linking the company to the kin of former ministers and influential figures within the current administration.
Quality Failures and Alleged Political Interference
Reliable sources indicate that the first shipment brought by Trident Chemphar was rejected after it failed to meet the required quality specifications for the Norochcholai Power Plant. However, similar quality concerns have been raised regarding the second shipment currently at port.
The real test of coal quality occurs only once it is fed into the plant’s boilers. Reports suggest that Minister Kumara Jayakodi is allegedly pressuring officials to bypass rigorous testing and “manage” the situation by mixing the new stock with existing coal reserves.
Accountability at Stake
As an administration that rose to power on a platform of transparency and anti-corruption, these developments have sparked significant public backlash. Critics argue that appointing individuals with pending legal clouds to high-ranking positions undermines the government’s mandate. If the use of substandard coal leads to long-term damage at the Norochcholai plant, the resulting power crisis will rest squarely on the shoulders of the Ministry and the current government.