UNP MP Ravi Karunanayake has accused the government of preparing to purchase 1,775 new double cabs at a cost of Rs. 42.8 billion, bypassing the standard international tender procedure.

Speaking at a press briefing in Colombo, Karunanayake said the initial plan was to import 2,000 double cabs, including vehicles for MPs, but the number was later reduced to 1,775. He alleged that the tender period had been shortened to 12 days, although normal procedure requires 42 days, and that the criteria were designed to favour a single company.

He claimed the government could have procured vehicles from local manufacturers at Rs. 16.5 million per vehicle instead of paying Rs. 24.5 million, saving Rs. 8 million per unit.

Karunanayake further questioned the logic of importing fuel-powered vehicles when the government could invest in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, noting that each fuel-powered vehicle would consume around Rs. 8 million worth of fuel annually.

He added that while the Sri Lankan government already owns around 87,000 vehicles, a developed country like Australia maintains only about 7,800, stressing the need for efficiency and sustainability.

“If we had switched to electric vehicles, the country could save Rs. 40 billion over five years — enough to build another Mahaweli project,” Karunanayake said.