Multiple industries cry foul over electricity tariff hike, calls for concessions for low-unit categories

• Claims Govt. does not have plans to expand generation plan than increasing tariffs
• Says estate workers find it impossible to live with Rs. 1,000 daily wage amidst rising costs 

Disgruntled electricity users representing various industries yesterday called on the Government to consider extending concessions to the low-income generating groups who are battered severely by the ongoing economic crisis.

All Island Small Industries Association National Organiser Niluka Kumara said daily activities of the small industries are severely impacted by the 66% electricity hike approved by the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka.

“Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) is now sending the bill along with the red notice. Our members cannot pay these exorbitant electricity tariffs with our income levels having reduced significantly,” he added.

He also claimed that the Government does not have a plan to expand power generation other than increasing the tariffs from time to time.

“We urge Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera to at least extend a concession of Rs. 500 for low-electricity users that utilise below 120 units per month. The latest electricity hike has impacted the low-electricity users more than the high-electricity users,” he urged.

Low-country Plantation Workers Association Convener Chamila Nishantha Abeysekera outlined that the estate workers use below 40 electricity units per month.

“At a time when all essential items have skyrocketed by 500%, it is impossible for the estate workers to live with Rs. 1,000 daily wage. The economic downturn has cruelly impacted them including the education of their children,” he added.

Separately, All Island Communication Owners’ Association President Indrajith Perera said they also increased the photocopy and print out prices in line with the electricity tariffs.

“We understand that our customers are also faced with difficulties, but we are also continuing our businesses with great difficulties with the ever-increasing cost of operations,” he stated.