Sri Lanka will retain northern islands, says Dullas Alahapperuma

Colombo (News 1st); Islands in the north of the country will not be released to any country, affirmed Minister of Power Dullas Alahapperuma.

He said several islands in the north, including Annalaithivu and Nagadeepa are provided with electricity using generators for a limited period during the day. Therefore, it was decided to provide electricity using Solar and Wind Energy for the islanders by calling for international tenders for the project, he said. The project is to cost 12 Million US Dollars given by the Asian Development Bank as a loan, and following the tender process, the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka approached the government to gift the 12 Million US Dollars for the project in the north, said the Minister. The Government is yet to decide on the matter, he said adding the decision will be made for the benefit of the people.