Sri Lanka: Lingering power disruptions ongoing as of the morning of June 9 after unionized electricity board workers suspend nationwide strike /update 1

Event

The Ceylon Electricity Board Engineers’ Union (CEBEU) has called off an indefinite nationwide strike as of the morning of June 9, following talks with government officials. Workers launched their strike 00:01 June 9 over demands to withdraw proposed amendments to the Sri Lanka Electricity Act and privatization of the power sector. The work stoppage caused outages across multiple areas, including Colombo and Kandy cities. Officials are working to resolve lingering disruptions.

Power disruptions will probably cause business and transport disruptions. Businesses without backup generators may have to suspend operations. Traffic lights and railway signaling mechanisms may not function, resulting in transport disruptions. Water filtration and security systems running on electricity may malfunction during outages, increasing the risk of health issues and opportunistic crimes. Municipal water supply systems and healthcare facilities may also be affected.

CEBEU workers may organize fresh strikes and related protests in the coming days. Demonstrations and street marches are likely near the government buildings and other popular protest venues like the Fort Railway Station in Colombo, as well as at district headquarters and city centers. Dozens to hundreds of workers may join each event. Localized transport disruptions and security deployment are likely near any large protests. Protests could turn violent quickly, though security forces are usually quick to resort to the use of force to disperse unruly gatherings. Businesses in areas experiencing violent protests and/or heightened security measures could close temporarily as a precaution.

Advice

Plan for lingering service disruptions June 9. Seek alternative arrangements as necessary. Any traveler encountering nonoperational traffic lights should treat the intersections as a four-way stop. Charge all batteries and mobile devices. Ensure generators have a sufficient fuel supply in case of prolonged outages. Restrict cellular phone use to emergencies if operating in an area without power. Conserve water as a precaution. Avoid all protests due to possible violence. Do not navigate protester roadblocks as activists may react violently; wait for the police to clear them before proceeding. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Due to potential protests, allow additional travel time in Colombo and other urban centers. Monitor trusted local media for updates on rally venues as organizers may announce or change plans at short notice. Heed all security and traffic advisories.