The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has decided to conduct an independent investigation into the nationwide power outage that occurred on 9 February, which was reportedly caused by a monkey colliding with the national electricity system, Mawbima newspaper reported today (25).

Speaking to Mawbima, PUCSL Director of Corporate Communications Janaka Herath said the internal report submitted by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) was unsatisfactory, prompting the commission to seek an external expert analysis.

When asked about the delay in launching the probe, Herath explained that it was due to the late submission of the CEB’s initial report and the commission’s engagement in public consultations related to electricity tariff revisions.

As part of this consultation process, 20 individuals have already been invited to participate, while others are welcome to join voluntarily and present fact-based submissions. Among those scheduled to appear are current and retired CEB employees, as well as representatives from solar energy organisations.

Those interested in participating can book a time slot by calling 077-2943193. The hearing will be held on 5 August.

Following the review of testimonies, the commission will prepare a set of recommendations and an action plan aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future, the PUCSL Director added.