CEB neglected submitting important reports to us: PUCSL

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) had neglected submitting some important reports regarding power interruptions and generations to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) for a period of nearly one year, PUCSL Director Corporate Communications Jayanat Herat told the Daily Mirror.

He said the CEB had neglected submitting reports on power interruptions, generations, power plants and water capacities on power generating tanks, etc since last May 27, 2018 and added the PUCSL was not able to exercise its powers and take effective decisions to regulate the power sector, because of the CEB’s failure to submit the reports, despite reminders.

He said this had created serious issues for many parties, and attributed it to the present power crisis and the inconveniences faced by consumers. The negligent tactics of the CEB becomes an offence under the PUCSL Act No 35 of 2002.

Accordingly, the PUCSL filed a case under powers vested on it against the CEB for failing to provide them with important reports.

However, Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court had to postpone the case filed by PUCSL to April 16 when the case was taken up on April 9, after the lawyer representing the CEB requested a fresh date, as he was unable to be present in court.

Nine accused are cited in the case filed by the PUCSL, with the CEB being listed as the first accused. The other accused are CEB directors.

PUCSL lawyer Kithsiri Liyanage told the Daily Mirror that if the CEB was found guilty, the magistrate could impose a fine of not less than Rs. 10 million and not more than Rs. 100 million (Sheain Fernandopulle)