First waste-to-energy projects commence

Construction work on the first two projects to generate electricity from garbage commenced under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday.

These projects are implemented as a solution to the problems caused by improper garbage disposal, the President’s media said.

Sri Lanka did not focus on how to use garbage as a resource. Under this new initiative an environment-friendly method for final disposal related to the methods used in developed countries for waste management will be introduced. 

The Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development has implemented a proper program to utilise garbage. Under this, KCHT Lanka Jang Company has invested Rs. 27 billion for these projects in Kerawalapitiya.

Through this project 10 megawatts of electricity will be added to the national grid. In line with this a garbage collecting centre will be established in Aruwakkalu in Puttalam.

The construction work for all of this will be completed within the next two years.

Ministers Patali Champika Ranawaka, John Amaratunga and Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, deputy ministers Lasantha Alagiyawanna and Nimal Lanza, Western Province Chief Minister Isura Dewapriya and the Secretary to the Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development Dr. Jagath Munasinghe were among those present at the occasion.