Hon. Suranga Rathnayaka
2026-02-17
Hon. Suranga Rathnayaka raised concerns about alleged irregularities in the importation of low-grade coal for the Norochcholai power plant, citing test results that reportedly identified a loss of Rs. 2,153 million to the state, against which only Rs. 351 million has been recovered as a penalty. He noted a discrepancy between the tender categories under which coal was procured (RB1 and RB2) and the grade actually supplied, suggesting this constitutes serious fraud. The speaker directed two specific questions to the Minister: what steps are being taken to recover the full financial loss to the country, and what is the current status of any investigations into the matter. A portion of his remarks was expunged on the order of the Chair.
Hon. Minister, there has been much discussion about the import of low-grade coal and a major loss said to have occurred. Tests at the Norochcholai power plant reportedly revealed a loss of Rs. 2,153 million, while only Rs. 351 million has been charged as a penalty. Tenders were called under categories RB1 and RB2, but supply was under RB2 while penalties applied—there appears to be a serious fraud involved. [Expunged on the order of the Chair.] What actions are you, as the Minister and the Ministry, taking to recover the loss to the country? What is the status of the investigations?