March 10, Colombo (LNW): Electricity supply interruptions affecting several areas in Colombo and the Gampaha District may take longer than usual to resolve as power sector employees continue a trade union strike that began yesterday afternoon.
According to union representatives, the industrial action commenced at around 3.00 p.m. yesterday (09) and is scheduled to continue for 24 hours. The protest has been organised in response to a number of grievances linked to the recent restructuring of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB).
Trade union officials say workers have raised eight key demands, including concerns over the manner in which employees are being transferred to newly formed companies created after the dissolution of the CEB. One of the main issues highlighted is the alleged failure to issue formal appointment letters when staff members are reassigned to these new institutions.
The ongoing strike has contributed to delays in addressing electricity disruptions reported in areas such as Colombo 9, Colombo 14 and several localities in Gampaha. Authorities indicated that technical teams are working to restore supply where possible, but response times may be affected while the industrial action continues.
The National Employees’ Union of the CEB confirmed that the protest is intended as a one-day warning strike, though union leaders have warned that further action could follow if their concerns remain unresolved.
Kosala Abeysinghe, chairman of the CEB Technical Engineers’ Union, stated that trade unions are prepared to escalate their campaign if authorities fail to respond to the issues raised by workers.
Meanwhile, officials involved in the electricity sector’s reform programme have sought to reassure employees. Pubudu Niroshan Hedigalla, who heads the CEB Transformation Task Force, said the transition to the newly established companies would not undermine staff rights, benefits or job security.
He added that the restructuring process is aimed at improving efficiency and management within the power sector, while maintaining existing protections for employees. Discussions between authorities and union representatives are expected to continue as efforts are made to resolve the dispute.