Transformer explodes in Kandy

[TamilNet, Friday, 26 February 1999, 10:57 GMT]
A transformer was exploded at Katugastota, a suburb that lies a few miles out of Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka, around 12.45 am today, resulting in power failures in several places in the area, Police said.

Residents said that the explosion rocked the area and the Ceylon Electricity Board put the estimate for repairing the damaged transformer at over half a million rupees.

Sources said that this was the first time a transformer had been blasted in Kandy area.

Army personnel based at Pallekelle and the Kandy Police are making inquiries to arrest suspects, sources said.