17 Feb 2022 | 09:13 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Further nationwide power disruptions possible as of Feb. 17 /update 1
Additional power disruptions possible across Sri Lanka as of Feb. 17 due to supply shortages. Business, traffic disruptions likely.
Event
The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has announced that additional power outages are possible as of Feb. 17. Summer-related water conservation efforts are likely to hamper hydropower availability. This could exacerbate outages due to fuel supply shortages prompted by an ongoing foreign exchange crisis. Typically, outages last up to 2.5 hours in the afternoon or late evening on a rolling basis at various locations nationwide. Unannounced power outages may occur outside of the official schedule. Authorities say the rolling blackouts are necessary to meet electricity demands amid technical failures and fuel shortages affecting power plants. Officials have not indicated when services will normalize.
Business and transport disruptions are likely during the outages. Businesses without backup generators may have to suspend operations. Traffic lights and railway signaling mechanisms may not function, resulting in transport disruptions. Officials are likely to ration fuel, limiting fuel availability for vehicles. Increased use of hydropower plants to ease shortages may also exacerbate municipal water outages caused by electricity disruptions. Water filtration and security systems running on electricity may malfunction, increasing the risk of opportunistic crime and health issues, respectively.
Civil organizations, business owners, and opposition parties may hold sit-ins and street marches against prolonged or widespread disruptions. Popular gathering sites include major traffic intersections, public squares, and government buildings. The largest demonstrations are likely in Colombo, mainly in and around the Fort area. Increased security is likely at large protests; police tend to use force to disperse crowds.
Context
An ongoing foreign exchange crisis in Sri Lanka is set to continue affecting external payments. Although electricity supply to industries is prioritized, significant operational disruptions are possible in the medium term if the government fails to secure fuel supplies.
Advice
Monitor announcements from the CEB for area-specific power outage schedules. Make allowances for possible unannounced outages. Limit unnecessary movements during power outages. Confirm travel reservations in advance. Plan for ground travel delays. 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 the outage becomes protracted. Restrict cellular phone use to emergencies if operating in an area without power. Conserve water as a precaution.
