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Colombo
port scan tender draws US flak US Ambassador Jeffrey Lunstead has told the Treasury that the specifications would exclude most manufacturers and Sri Lanka should carefully consider all available technologies and not limit its consideration to one standard. Some bidders have alleged that the specifications were tailor-made for one particular manufacturer from Europe and were taken word-for-word from the European manufacturer's manual. The tender seeks to obtain for the Colombo Port electronic equipment to inspect packed cargo without opening the containers or the cases. In a letter to the Treasury, the US ambassador has said: "I am writing today with regard to the tender for port scanning equipment, relating to Sri Lanka's desire to establish a CSI port. As you know, we are working to provide a temporary loan of scanning equipment, pending the finalization of your tender process. I hope this equipment will allow Sri Lanka to move forward quickly in becoming a CSI port." The ambassador in his letter said a US company had expressed concern about certain specifications in the tender. The US company has pointed out that the penetration systems effectively eliminate certain kinds of equipment, including those of the US company. The main purpose for such equipment will be to detect explosives, weapons, drugs and other contraband or dangerous items. The Sunday Times learns that despite the US protest, the technical evaluation committee is keeping to its original agenda and bidders say Sri Lanka will lose credibility in the international market if this is allowed to go through. |
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