Audit Exposes "Questionable Transactions" in Ambuluwawa Cable Car Project

COLOMBO (News1st): Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabendi says that the Auditor General’s report on the Cable Car project in Ambuluwawa reveals a number of questionable transactions.

Minister Dammika Patabendi noted that the Auditor General has pointed out that many transactions pertaining to the project are suspicious and irregular. 

He made these remarks in response to a statement made by Member of Parliament Anuradha Jayaratne in Parliament yesterday.

Speaking in parliament yesterday, MP Anuradha Jayaratne stated that the cable car project has been stalled due to landslide concerns.

MP Jayaratne highlighted his efforts in 2022 to bring a $12.75 million investment to Sri Lanka during a critical forex crisis.

Replying to the comments made by MP Anuradha Jayarathne, regarding the cable car project being stalled due to landslide concerns, Minister Dr. Patabendi stated that, under the directive of The Ministry of Environment, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) halted all construction on the Ambuluwawa cable car project.

According to Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi, The decision was made following reports that construction was proceeding without necessary recommendations, and the suspension will remain in effect until a formal investigation is completed.

Addressing the legal status of the project, the Minister highlighted several alarming observations were made from the Auditor General’s report.

Accordingly, minister said that Although the Board of Trustees approved a $1.2 billion project in June 2023 with the Trust agreeing to bear 16% of the cost no formal procurement bids were ever called and stated that a contract was signed just six days after the board meeting with a company that was registered on the very same day the agreement was finalized.

During the year under review, $93.15 million was spent via 19 different vouchers. However, no supporting documents or schedules were provided to the auditors to justify what those payments were actually for.

Accordingly, Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabendi stated based on these observations, the Auditor General has recommended a formal inquiry to take action against those responsible for these lapses and has described the entire project as a highly suspicious and irregular project.