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03/03/2024

Catch up on stories from this week that you might have missed.

01/03/2024

Sri Lanka’s 1st-ever semi-transparent solar PV-powered agrivoltaic pilot project was commissioned at Hanthana in Kandy.

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said the project was funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

He said the pilot project will assist the Plantation Industries Ministry, the Power & Energy Ministry, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), the Tea Small Holders Development Authority, and the Sustainable Energy Authority in studying the development of renewable energy in tea plantations in the country.

01/03/2024

Sri Lanka is starting to build its 1st-ever wildlife tunnel to prevent elephants from getting hit by trains on March 1 in the Kasikota area of Galgamuwa, Gatadivula, the Transport and Highways Ministry said.

This comes after many elephants have died in train accidents, which is a big concern locally and internationally. Despite previous attempts to solve this problem, it's still happening.

About 150 to 200 wild elephants have died in train collisions over the years. The original plan was to use an old culvert, but due to some technical issues a new tunnel will be built at 'Alimankada'.

Constructions of this wildlife tunnel as part of the Maho-Omanthai Railway Development Project, funded by the Indian credit line. The goal is to save about 200 elephants and make train travel safer for passengers while also protecting the railway infrastructure.

29/02/2024

Sri Lanka is experiencing a rising trend in HIV cases.
Here's what you need to know.

29/02/2024

Commissioner General of Motor Traffic Nishantha Anuruddha Weerasinghe said that it is mandatory to book a date and time in advance to get services from any Department of Motor Traffic office on the island from 04 March.

The public can book appointments by calling 011 2 117 116 or visiting www.dmtappointments.dmt.gov.lk

29/02/2024

Deshabandu Tennakoon officially assumed duties as the 36th Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Sri Lanka, today (29).

Senior DIG and Acting IGP Tennakoon was appointed as the new IGP on 26 February.

Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake presented the official appointment letter to IGP Tennakoon at the Presidential Secretariat.

This appointment, in compliance with the stipulations outlined in Articles 41C.(1) and 61E.(b) of the Constitution of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, has been made under the authority vested in President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the PMD reported.

Tennakoon had been appointed as the Acting IGP on 29 November 2023.

29/02/2024

Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera highlighted a significant overseas demand for Sri Lankan king coconuts, but the country struggles to fulfill even 10% of it due to local shortages.

He emphasized the high demand in Middle Eastern countries, where Sri Lanka faces minimal competition. However, internal competition arises when some exporters lower prices, affecting profits.

Amaraweera suggested that by maintaining prices around LKR 2000, both exporters and planters could benefit. To address the shortage, a new program will promote the cultivation of more king coconut plants for export purposes.

28/02/2024

Education Ministry has advised the schools to keep students indoors due to soaring temperatures.
Here's what you need to know.

28/02/2024

The Ministry of Education has advised students to avoid outdoor activities today (28), tomorrow (29), and 1 March, due to the expected hot weather.

Students should refrain from outdoor sports, events, or any other activities during high temperatures. Sports day events, practices, and other outdoor activities are to be suspended for now.

Provincial and zonal education authorities will inform school principals about this. Schools must also follow health guidelines from both the Health Ministry and the Education Ministry.

28/02/2024

Ronnie de Mel, the Finance Minister of late President J.R. Jayewardene’s Cabinet in 1977, passed away today (28), at the age of 99.

Late de Mel is mostly remembered for introducing the open economy in Sri Lanka in 1978 during his tenure as the Finance minister.

He is the longest-serving Finance Minister in the country and one who has presented the most number of budgets from 1977 to 1987.

He began his political career by joining the Sri Lankan Freedom Party (SLFP) and later crossed over to the United National Party (UNP).

27/02/2024

SriLankan Airlines Chairman Ashok Pathirage said during a discussion at the Ports, Shipping and Aviation Ministry that rats were found on board two SriLankan Airlines aircraft on 25 February resulting in flight delays.

He mentioned that a chemical had to be sprayed on both aircraft and they were grounded for one day as per international standards. He added that two other aircraft had to be delayed due to technical defects on the same day.

Pathirage said that they would take additional steps towards not having a repeat of this.

Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala then questioned whether any investigation was done to determine how the animals managed to creep into the aircraft.

It was also revealed that the absence of 15 ground handling staff also caused the delay. Three members of staff had applied for leave on 255 February while the remaining 12 had not applied for leave.

The Minister advised to terminate the employment of those who did not report to work without applying for leave.

SriLankan Airlines issued an apology to any passengers inconvenienced by these operational delays, while the airline continues to monitor the situation and take steps to avoid a recurrence.

27/02/2024

Sri Lanka Planetarium located at Prof. Stanley Wijesundera Mawatha, Colombo 07 will be closed from today until 12 March and public exhibitions have been temporarily suspended during that period.

The planetarium will be closed due to essential maintenance work on the planetarium's projectors.

27/02/2024

Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa said that 83 people have died in incidents related to homicides since 1 January 2024.

He said that 1,180 cases of housebreakings and property theft have been reported and 310 robberies have been also reported.

Thalduwa said that the police is currently taking measures to control the criminal wave in the country.

The Police Media Spokesman stated that about 20 shooting incidents were also reported since 1 January 2024.

He added that it has been revealed that organised criminals were involved in about 10 of the related shooting incidents.

27/02/2024

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said that the Constituent Council did not approve the appointment of Deshabandu Tennakone as Inspector General of Police.

Premadasa leaving a note in his X account said that in the voting held for the appointment of Tennakoon as the IGP, 4 votes were voted in favor and 2 votes were cast against. Two members had abstained from voting.

He added that at least 05 votes are required for a decision and that the Speaker has a casting vote only in case of a tie.

“4/2 is not a tie! Constitution is being blatantly violated for the second time. Shame on you speaker!” he tweeted.

Accordingly, he points out that the Constitution has been violated for the second time by Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.

26/02/2024

Many patients who were treated at the Kurunegala Hospital's Dialysis Unit have got complications after treatments.

What you need to know.

26/02/2024

An islandwide study conducted by the Department of Economics and Statistics, University of Peradeniya has revealed that 49% of phone numbers of public officers' that must be open to the people are inactive.

This survey has been carried out by considering the phone numbers Grama Niladhari officers, Samurdhi officers and Development officers posted on the websites of the Divisional Secretariat offices. Landline numbers of 98 Pradesiya Sabhas, 23 municipal councils and 36 urban councils have also been used for this study.

It has been revealed that 286 out of the 589 phone numbers used for the survey are inactive. The inactive rate is 49%. 22% of the phone numbers are active but does not answer. According to the study, the percentage of answering calls is only 29%.

Professor Wasantha Athukorala of Peradeniya University's Department of Economics and Statistical Studies points out that the results of the survey can provide an understanding of the inefficiency in the public service.

26/02/2024

Sri Lankan powerlifters dominated the Asian Powerlifting Championships, Malaysia December 2023 winning 26 medals competing with over 600 athletes participated from over 36 countries in the Asian region.

Suranga de Silva won 4 gold medals (Masters 1) and Rohan Paulas (Masters 3) won 3 gold medals, leading the medal haul. Pradeep Sununu, Kunam Pushanthan and Uvindu Jayasinghe also won medals in the highly competitive Open category. Sulesh Mendis won a silver in the junior category while Darin Weerasinghe won a silver in the Masters 1 category.

Medal brakdown:

Pradeep Sumudu 59 weights class (Open)
Squat - Bronze
Bench Press - Silver
Deadlift- Silver
Overall- Silver

Uvindu Jayasinghe 105 weight class (Open)
Squat - Bronze

Kunam Pushanthan 120+ weight class (Open)
Bench Press - Silver
Deadlift - Silver

Sulesh Mendis 120 weight class (Sub-Junior)
Squat - Bronze
Bench Press - Bronze
Deadlift- Silver
Overall- Silver

Jenosha Mendis 74 weight class (Junior)
Squat - Silver

Shevoni Nethara 84 weight class (Junior)
Squat - Bronze
Bench Press - Bronze
Deadlift- Silver
Overall- Bronze

Suranga de Silva 66 weight class (Masters 1)
Squat - Gold
Bench Press - Gold
Deadlift- Gold
Overall- Gold

Thilakarathne Chandana 83 weight class (Masters 1)
Deadlift - Silver

Hiran Fernando 93 weight class (Masters 1)
Squat - Silver

Darin Weerasinghe 120 weight class (Masters 1)
Bench Press - Silver

Rohan Paulas 105 weight class (Masters 3)
Squat - Gold
Bench Press - Silver
Deadlift- Gold
Overall- Gold

26/02/2024

The Sri Lanka Army has granted permission for the public to visit seven Hindu temples (Kovils) situated within the high-security zone under the jurisdiction of the Security Forces Headquarters in Jaffna.

Under this decision, civilians will be permitted to participate in weekly poojas and other associated rituals at the Kaduwan Muttumari Amman Kovil, Vasavilan Manampirai Kovil, Visavilan Shivam Kovil, Vasavilan Naga Kovil, Palali Raja Rajeswari Kovil, Palali Naga Thampilan Kovil and Palali Shaktiveli Murugan Kovil.

This decision was made in response to numerous requests from temple trustees and civil organisations. Previously, permissions were limited to monthly and special poojas at these kovil premises.

26/02/2024

The Russian Embassy in Colombo has expressed serious concern over the controversial night party originally scheduled for 24 February in Unawatuna with "Face Control: White" theme initially promoted as 'Opening White Party,' which sparked outrage among the public and was subsequently called off. The public objection was noted due to the discriminatory nature of the event as the theme of the event meant that only white people would be allowed in.

Furthermore, the Embassy urged all Russian citizens visiting or residing in Sri Lanka to adhere strictly to Sri Lankan laws and respect local customs.

The Embassy acknowledged unconfirmed reports linking Russian citizens to the event’s organisation. However, the cancellation was stemmed from the unclear entry conditions and resulting public confusion, rather than malicious intent.

The organisers of the event apologised for any offence caused and expressed their regret, emphasising their lack of intention to harm or discriminate against anyone. The Embassy reiterated Russia’s opposition to racial discrimination and nationalism, emphasising its commitment to tackle such injustices.

22/02/2024

The new bread weight gazette was brought to bring a standard to the bakery industry. Does it benefit the bakery owners and the consumers as expected?
Here's what you need to know.

22/02/2024

Spa Ceylon, the iconic Ayurveda Wellness brand, has won three international accolades at the World Luxury Spa Awards 2023, including the prestigious Global Award for Best Beauty Product, alongside Awards for Best Luxury Ayurveda Spa Global and Best Spa Group Global.

With the brand expanding globally and now having over 133 banded locations, the Spa Ceylon chain is now in more than 27 countries across 5 continents. It continues to grow internationally, firmly establishing itself as the world’s largest Luxury Ayurveda chain and opening its milestone 150th store in 2024.

New international stores are scheduled to open at Indian Ocean tourism hubs Male in Maldives and Port Louise in Mauritius followed by Athens, Greece and Almaty, Kazakhstan, Muscat, Oman in the Middle East, and several more key locations in Sri Lanka. This year, their first foray into South America will also see store openings in El Salvadore.

22/02/2024

Eng. Noel Priyantha resigned as the spokesperson of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) after making controversial remarks on a TV program.

He received backlash for suggesting that electricity tariff hikes weren't a big issue and implying people could manage with kerosene lamps for studying. He also made insensitive comments about the lifestyle of tea plantation workers. Priyantha issued a press release and apologized for any hurt caused.

Water Supply Minister Jeevan Thondaman criticized his remarks on Twitter. The Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera criticized his remarks, emphasizing they don't reflect government or CEB views. Priyantha's resignation was accepted, and the CEB management will take appropriate action.

21/02/2024

Starting on 25 February, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura will offer a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Police Studies External Degree program.

This program, established through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 12 December 2022, between the university and the Sri Lanka Police, is tailored for officers ranked above inspector level.

Launched on 4 September 2023, it aims to bolster officers' theoretical and practical understanding of policing, incorporating humanities and social sciences subjects. The program's goal is to cultivate compassionate, skilled, and flexible officers with strong leadership and analytical abilities.

21/02/2024

A study conducted by Global Vaccine Data Network (GVDN) with the participation of nearly 100 million vaccinated individuals across eight countries has revealed that COVID-19 vaccines accelerate 13 different medical conditions.

The study was conducted in Argentina, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, New Zealand and Scotland. Individuals who obtained COVID vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca took part in it.

Researchers had observed a slight increase in neurological, blood, and heart-related issues in individuals following vaccination.

Individuals who received Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna vaccines were found to have an increased risk of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca vaccines were associated with an increased likelihood of blood clots in the brain and Guillain-Barre syndrome, a neurological disorder.

Other potential risks highlighted in the study included inflammation of the spinal cord and swelling in the brain and spinal cord, particularly after administration of vaccines.

21/02/2024

After being denied their rights for two centuries, the plantation community is finally getting housing and lands they rightfully deserve.
Here's what you need to know.

21/02/2024

The Sri Lankan movie "Peacock Lament" (Vihaga Premaya), written and directed by international award-winning film director Sanjeeva Pushpakumara has been chosen by Warner Bros. to be telecasted in HBO Max.

The movie will be shown on HBO Max from 1 March targeting Eastern European countries including Poland, Romania, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

This movie was created based on human trafficking and selling of infants to foreigners in Sri Lanka. This is also the first official film production between Italy and Sri Lanka.

Sabeetha Perera, Akalanga Prabhaswara, Dinara Punchihewa, Mahendra Perera, Amiththa Weerasinghe, and famous Italian actor Lorenzo Acquaviva have joined the cast for this creation.

Savoy Cinema Company is scheduled to show "Peacock Lament" (Vihaga Premaya) in theaters in Sri Lanka in 2024.

21/02/2024

Actor Jason Momoa, famous for his portrayal in the movie Aquaman extended his congratulations to Sri Lanka for receiving the UN World Restoration Flagship for mangrove conservation.

Momoa is the the United Nations Environment Programme advocate for life below water.

He appreciated Sri Lanka’s efforts to restore its lands, especially its coast and oceans, following the tsunami disaster In a UN video message.

“Congratulations Sri Lanka. Mahola for working together to create positive change. You are an example. All my Aloha,” He said.

20/02/2024

Today, the Supreme Court delivered its decision on the Anti-Terrorism Bill to Parliament Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.

The court ruled that some parts of the bill require a special majority in Parliament, while others need both a special majority and a referendum unless certain amendments are made.

Petitions have been filed asking the Supreme Court to require a parliamentary vote with a two-thirds majority and a referendum to pass the Anti-Terrorism Bill on 10 January. The Attorney General is named as the respondent in these petitions.

The hearing, which lasted six days, concluded on 2 February. 31 petitions were filed against the bill, which aims to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act.

Among the petitioners are Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, General Secretary of Samagi Jana Balawegaya Ranjith Madduma Bandara, National People’s Power MP Vijitha Herath, Centre for Policy Alternatives, Socialist Youth Union, Duminda Nagamuwa of Frontline Socialist Party and the Ceylon Teachers’ Union.

20/02/2024

Dr. Deepika Rathnawardane made history by becoming the first female Chief Medical Officer of Health at the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) in 122 years, after 12 male predecessors.

She began her career in 1989 and joined CMC in 1991, specializing in Maternity and Child Health.

Over the years, she progressed through various roles, eventually becoming Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health in 2014.

Following the retirement of the former Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ruwan Wijemuni, she assumed the position in her 33rd year of service in CMC.

Dr. Wijemuni, after 36 years of service, transitioned to Chief Medical Officer of the dispensary service of CMC.

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14.3% rise in HIV patients in 2023

Sri Lanka is experiencing a rising trend in HIV cases. Here's what you need to know. #PulseToday #SLNews #lka #SriLanka #HIV #Aids

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What's wrong with Kurunegala Hospital's Dialysis Unit?

Many patients who were treated at the Kurunegala Hospital's Dialysis Unit have got complications after treatments. What you need to know. #PulseToday #lka #SLNews #SriLanka #KurunegalaHospital #HealthCrisisLK

Bread prices according to weight. Will you buy?

The new bread weight gazette was brought to bring a standard to the bakery industry. Does it benefit the bakery owners and the consumers as expected? Here's what you need to know. #PulseToday #SriLanka #lka #SLNews #CAA

CEB Spokesman resigns over backlash

Eng. Noel Priyantha resigned as the spokesperson of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) after making controversial remarks on a TV program. He received backlash for suggesting that electricity tariff hikes weren't a big issue and implying people could manage with kerosene lamps for studying. He also made insensitive comments about the lifestyle of tea plantation workers. Priyantha issued a press release and apologized for any hurt caused. Water Supply Minister Jeevan Thondaman criticized his remarks on Twitter. The Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera criticized his remarks, emphasizing they don't reflect government or CEB views. Priyantha's resignation was accepted, and the CEB management will take appropriate action. #PulseToday #SLNews #SriLanka #lka #CEB #BigFocus

Land ownership to Plantation community after 200 years!

After being denied their rights for two centuries, the plantation community is finally getting housing and lands they rightfully deserve. Here's what you need to know. #PulseToday #SriLanka #SLnews #lka #PlantationCommunity #BharatLanka #Saumyabhoomi

Jason Momoa congratulates Sri Lanka for becoming a UN World Restoration Flagship

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Welikada prison hospital is over-crowding. What now?

The Welikada prison hospital treats twice as many patients as it has the capacity to treat. Here's what you need to know. #PulseToday #SriLanka #lka #SLNews #PrisonSL

SL vs Afghanistan T20 tickets creates chaos

A tense situation was reported at the Dambulla Divisional Secretariat, today (19) afternoon, as crowds thronged the premises in attempts to purchase tickets for today’s T20 match between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced on 18 February, that all tickets for both the second and third T20 matches against Afghanistan have been sold out. However, tickets priced at LKR 500 and LKR 200 were issued at the Dambulla Divisional Secretariat this morning, resulting in large crowds of fans gathering to purchase tickets. The second match of the three-match series is scheduled to kick-off at 7 p.m. today, at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium. #PulseToday #SriLanka #SLNews #lka #Cricket #SLC

9,434 child abuse complaints in 2023

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Sri Lankan military to be downsized by 1/3rd in 2024

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LKR 5 Billion loss because of 5 corrupt DMT officials

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232 Bakeries Busted!

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Undercover cops in public transport.

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Will the Online Safety Bill cost the Speaker his seat?

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Flexible work shifts during Ramadan

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1.6 million Primary students to get school lunches

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“Let’s build a new country” without people?

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Sri Lanka's 1st ever Anti-aging capsule

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Sri Lankan fishermen captured by Somalian pirates rescued

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Videos

14.3% rise in HIV patients in 2023

How to keep school children safe during this heat?

What's wrong with Kurunegala Hospital's Dialysis Unit?

Bread prices according to weight. Will you buy?

CEB Spokesman resigns over backlash

Land ownership to Plantation community after 200 years!

Jason Momoa congratulates Sri Lanka for becoming a UN World Restoration Flagship

Welikada prison hospital is over-crowding. What now?

SL vs Afghanistan T20 tickets creates chaos

9,434 child abuse complaints in 2023

Sri Lankan military to be downsized by 1/3rd in 2024

LKR 5 Billion loss because of 5 corrupt DMT officials

232 Bakeries Busted!

Undercover cops in public transport.

Will the Online Safety Bill cost the Speaker his seat?

Flexible work shifts during Ramadan

1.6 million Primary students to get school lunches

“Let’s build a new country” without people?

Sri Lanka's 1st ever Anti-aging capsule

Sri Lankan fishermen captured by Somalian pirates rescued

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