Sri Lanka, March 12 -- Allegations that Sri Lanka imported coal of lower quality than required have already gained significant public attention.

Despite repeated assurances from the Government that substandard coal is not affecting operations at the country's largest coal-fired power station, experts say evidence suggests otherwise.

Documents from the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka indicate that the Lakvijaya Power Plant is struggling to maintain normal operating conditions, raising concerns of a potential energy crunch in the coming months.

Energy expert Vidura Ralapanawa says data from the regulator points to a clear decline in the plant's ability to generate electricity at full capacity.

"The PUCSL report includes plant ...