Parliament Flags Discrepancies in Lakvijaya Coal Shipments 📈

The Sectoral Oversight Committee (SOC) on Infrastructure has raised serious concerns over inconsistencies in documentation for coal shipments at the Lakvijaya Power Plant. • Key Quality Issues: Plant reports for the first three shipments recorded a Gross Calorific Value (GCV) below 5,900 kcal/kg, failing to meet standard fuel quality requirements. • Documentation Gaps: Data from load and discharge ports reportedly do not align with findings at the plant level, casting doubt on the reliability of Indian laboratory certifications. • Financial Impact: While penalties were recouped for the first shipment, energy losses from subsequent shipments are deemed non-recoverable. The PUCSL has been directed to calculate the total financial loss caused by using low-quality coal. • Audit Recommendations: The Committee urged the immediate reinstatement of pre-2023 registration frameworks for the Lanka Coal Company (LCC), as recommended by the Auditor General. • Next Steps: The Energy Ministry is to engage an independent laboratory for fresh testing, and action is sought against officials who failed to brief the Cabinet on audit warnings. This oversight aims to safeguard energy sector efficiency and protect consumers from the broader economic impact of procurement irregularities. _(Based on provisional committee reports)_