Sri Lanka is facing the threat of a looming power crisis due to the importation of substandard coal from South Africa. In response to the developing situation, the Government has decided to seek the advice of the Attorney General regarding the problematic tender process and the low-quality shipments.
Heated Parliamentary Debate
The controversial coal deal took center stage during yesterday’s parliamentary debate, sparking heated arguments. The Opposition leveled severe allegations against the Government, claiming that the entire tender process was completely corrupt. Lawmakers warned that these irregularities could severely impact the electricity consumers and demanded an immediate, transparent investigation into the procurement process.
Failed Tests and Low Calorific Value
According to internal documents from the Lakvijaya Coal Power Plant, continuous sample tests of three coal shipments imported from South Africa via the Indian company ‘Trident Chemphar Ltd’ have failed. Official data confirms that the Gross Calorific Value (GCV) of these shipments is significantly lower than the required standard for the efficient power generation of the plant’s three units.
Future Implications and Legal Action
A total of 23 shipments of coal have been procured under this specific tender. Experts warn that if the supply of low-quality coal continues, it will severely impact the country’s power generation capacity, potentially leading to widespread power shortages in the near future.
Consequently, the Government is planning to consult the Attorney General to explore the possibilities of amending the current tender and to determine the necessary steps to ensure maximum transparency in future procurement processes.
Source – Sri Lanka Mirror