Security at power stations to be boosted

A systematic programme to enhance the security of hydrel areas, electricity transformers and distributions and transmission stations and lines will be implemented by the Power and Energy Ministry in consultation with the Defence Ministry.

This follows a meeting chaired by Power and Energy Minister W.D.J. Seneviratne and attended by Power Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage at the Colombo Kelanitissa Power Station yesterday.

Under the new security scheme the public would be requested to be vigilant about the electricity stations and distribution lines and inform the Security Forces and Police about suspicious persons hovering around them, a Power and Energy Ministry release said.

Main power stations considered national economic nerve centres have already been provided with enhanced security with the deployment of Army and CEB security personnel.

The release added that a public security co-ordination programme would be implemented through electricity consumer unions for the protection of outstation electricity transformers and networks within the next few days.