Sri Lanka: Protests over electricity polices to occur in and around Colombo Nov. 1

Multiple groups plan to protest in and around Colombo Nov. 1 to denounce electricity policies. Workers from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) will demonstrate outside CEB Headquarters at 12:00 to oppose the proposed approval of foreign stakeholders. Protesters under the Electricity Consumer Association (ECA) will also stage a march over electricity tariff hikes; participants will start from Divulapitiya Central Bus Stand in Gampaha District and pass several towns, including Minuwangoda and Wattala, before reaching the Ministry of Power and Energy office in Colombo at 22:00. At least a few hundred participants are likely to join each event. Organizers may call off the plans at short notice due to legal restrictions or police actions. Additional protests may occur until officials respond to the demands.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are almost certain along the announced march route and around the main protest sites. Although significant violence is unlikely, isolated clashes are possible if police attempt to disperse the gathering forcibly. Security personnel have used mass arrests, tear gas, water cannons, and batons to prevent or control previous well-attended anti-government rallies. Traffic restrictions, including security cordons, diversions, and road closures, are probable along the rally route through the evening of Nov. 1. Highways A33 and B111 will likely be worst affected. Transport disruptions may worsen if protesters block roadways near rally sites. Increased congestion and demand for public transport are also probable as a large number of attendees reach and leave the venues.