Colombo (News 1st): President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has agreed to give a permanent solution for the environment as well as public issues surrounding the Norochcholai coal power plant. The President held discussions with Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith and other clergy, residents, and environmentalists at the Presidential Secretariat today (Jan 17).

The President has brought to the notice of the environment and the people the harm done to the environment by failing to comply with the agreed environmental norms at the commencement of the project.

The President’s media unit said that the President had called the companies and authorities in charge of the project and promptly issued instructions. The President also emphasized that the thermal power plant should function according to the technical and environmental regulations

Norochcholai power plant currently generates 900MW of power in three stages. No decision has been made regarding the fourth stage of the plant. As energy is a key factor in the rapid development of the country, the President explained the importance of switching to alternative energy.

The President further stated that the generation of such energy should occur in a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly manner. The President stated that he will inspect the plant while the minister of power and energy will send a team of engineers to investigate the Norochcholai power plant.

• (PICTURES) Indian Army Chief meets Sri Lanka’s Air Force Commander
• Politicians now threatening principals, alleges Trade Union Leader
• Amber alert issued for strong winds and rough seas
• Government the reason for recent price hike: Attanayake
• People have lost faith in Government: MP Mayantha