Iran to help Uma Oya project

Wasantha Ramanayake

COLOMBO: The Iranian Government has expressed its willingness to assist the Uma Oya Hydro Power Project, Power and Energy Ministry officials said.

A team of Iranian envoys who met Power and Energy Minister W.D.J. Senevirathne had agreed to conduct a feasibility study on the project. The Cabinet had granted the approval on August 30, 2006 for the construction of the medium scale hydro power project that would generate 88 MW. The Irrigation Department would also assist the project as it involve the development of the Uma oya valley.

The cost of the project was estimated around US$ million 120. The parties discussed the possibility of starting the project as a joint venture.

Sri Lankan Ambassador in Iran M.M. Zuhair led the delegation that comprised the Chairman of the Arsh Company of Iran R. Shafiei.