May 01, Colombo (LNW): Power and Energy State Minister Indika Anuruddha Herath addressed concerns surrounding the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project, asserting that no landslides or major issues have been reported since its public ownership.
He cautioned against what he described as ‘misleading representations,’ urging vigilance against false information.
During a media briefing at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC), he highlighted the significant loss incurred due to the project’s nine-year delay, amounting to nearly US$ 200 billion.
Despite electricity generation not being integrated into the national grid during this period, reports linking the project to landslides persist.
To address concerns, a team of geologists will conduct an observational tour of the Uma Oya region today (01) to assess reported cracks and floods.
The government assures technical solutions based on global prevention measures, he added.
Furthermore, Herath emphasised the government’s commitment to sourcing 70 per cent of electricity production from renewable energy sources, including water, solar, and wind power plants.
Initiatives to expedite projects generating electricity from wind or solar power have been launched to prevent future electricity crises.
Moreover, efforts are underway to expedite power plant processes by implementing a point-based system for swift approval.
Additionally, initiatives to increase rooftop solar panel output have been initiated to meet energy demands effectively.
