May 08, Colombo (LNW): Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera raised concerns yesterday, accusing an organized group of attempting to disrupt government operations by disconnecting power without prior notice. The Electricity Board is currently conducting an investigation into these allegations.
The Minister’s remarks came in response to queries from Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Thushara Indunil Amarasena regarding the abrupt disconnection of power to consumers facing difficulties in paying their electricity bills.
Highlighting a longstanding practice, the Minister noted that both power supply and disconnections have been managed by the private sector for two decades. Additionally, he addressed criticisms from trade unions, alleging that the government has favored private companies in this regard.
Addressing the issue further, the Minister emphasized that there hasn’t been a specified target for issuing red bills, and a system is in place to disconnect electricity only after issuing such bills. However, certain groups are reportedly bypassing this protocol and disconnecting power supply after issuing red bills.
Assuring action against those responsible, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent process in power supply management.
