– Minister Prof. Chandana Abayarathne

The Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Professor Chandana Abayaratne, stated that all state institutions, local government bodies, and every citizen must contribute responsibly to conserve water and electricity in the face of the global energy crisis and the prevailing dry weather.

The Minister emphasized this during a special statement highlighting the importance of the economical use of fuel and energy across all state and local government sectors. He noted that maximum contribution from the state sector is essential to face the current energy challenges and the potential water shortage due to decreased rainfall. He added that alongside the state sector, the cooperation of all citizens is vital to overcome this crisis.

“Until the global energy crisis eases, we must all adapt to this conservation plan as a nation and a community. Everyone has a responsibility to turn off unnecessary lights at home and use water sparingly,” the Minister said.

The full statement of Minister Prof. Chandana Abayaratne is as follows:

“The country is currently experiencing a hot climate with drought-like conditions. Forecasts suggest potential issues regarding rainfall. Therefore, there is an urgent need to use existing water resources economically. As a government, we are directing all institutions, including state bodies and local authorities, to focus specifically on conserving energy and water.

Recently, we discussed with the heads of local government authorities how to save electricity at the institutional level. We identified that significant energy can be saved through the management of street lighting. We have observed that in some places, street lights are switched on much earlier than necessary. Therefore, during peak hours from 6:00 PM onwards, we must be as frugal as possible. Delaying the lighting of street lamps can save power. Similarly, lights are often left on in the mornings; local authorities should implement a plan to turn them off early, potentially involving community assistance.

Additionally, steps must be taken to switch off unnecessary fans and lights in offices, and the use of elevators (lifts) should be minimized. The duration for which illuminated billboards are powered must be reduced, as they consume a large amount of electricity. These should be switched off late at night.

I appeal to every citizen and every state institution to join this mission. You have a responsibility to contribute to domestic energy conservation by turning off unnecessary fans and lights. Even in domestic water consumption, we must limit use to essential needs. In many places, purified drinking water is used for tasks like washing vehicles. I urge you to use alternative methods for such tasks and reserve drinking water only for essential purposes. Until this global crisis settles, let us work together as one nation and one community.”