More rural electricity schemes

Power and Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka who was in Anuradhapura on an inspection tour opened five new rural electricity schemes for the benefit of 265 families in the district.

These included the Palukumbura, Pandukabayapura Division 13, Rambewa Oyegama, Kudawalpola and Kumbuluwewa electricity schemes.

The total expenditure incurred in the five schemes was Rs.37.76 million, states a press release by the Power and Energy Ministry.

Minister Ranawaka visited the Kilinochchi District and opened the Krishnapuram and Pungudutivu electricity schemes which would benefit 770 families.

The total expenditure incurred on these two schemes was Rs.48.63 million.

The release said the ministry has provided 32 percent of the electricity needs in the Kilinochchi district. Another 50 rapid electricity supply schemes are due to be completed by the end of this year, according to the CEB's Deputy General Manager's Office in the Northern Province.

Minister Ranawaka addressing the gathering at the opening ceremonies requested the beneficiaries of the schemes to use electricity saparingly in view of the power crisis caused by the failure of the monsoon rains.