Power Ministry seeks fuel from LIOC to generate electricity

By Ifham Nizam

Plans were afoot to hold discussions with Lanka Indian Oil Corporation (LIOC) to obtain fuel required for power generation during the next few days, a senior minister said.

Minister of Power Gamini Lokuge has instructed the CEB Chairman M.M.C. Ferdinando to have a discussion with LIOC top management.

“We are considering the alternative steps to procure the fuel required for the next few days. I have instructed the CEB Chairman to initiate discussions with the LIOC tomorrow. I told him that I would also attend the meeting, if required,” Minister Lokuge said.

Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila yesterday said that there were two tankers anchored at sea with a total of 76,000 MT of diesel.

“If the (CEB) can provide us with the required US Dollars to unload one of them, we can deliver diesel to the Ceylon Electricity Board.”