April 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities are considering a temporary shift to online operations for the public sector on April 16 and 17, to maintain essential services while reducing pressure on fuel and energy resources.

The proposal was examined during a recent Cabinet-appointed committee tasked with ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of public services. The session, chaired virtually by Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, focused on practical steps to navigate ongoing challenges linked to global energy uncertainties.

Officials reported that several ministries have already made notable progress in cutting fuel consumption. In particular, the Ministry of Health and Mass Media has achieved a significant reduction in diesel usage by the end of March, reflecting a wider push towards conservation across state institutions.

As part of these efforts, schools and universities are also being encouraged to adopt energy-conscious practices. Awareness programmes targeting students are scheduled in early April, while higher education institutions have increasingly turned to online teaching where possible.

Despite the shift towards digital solutions, authorities confirmed that key public examinations and administrative functions have continued without disruption. Essential services in sectors such as transport, justice, and digital administration are being maintained through a combination of limited on-site staffing and remote systems.

In parallel, plans are underway to launch a nationwide awareness drive promoting water conservation and the use of alternative sources. This initiative will involve collaboration between the National Water Supply and Drainage Board and the government’s Clean Sri Lanka programme.

The Ministry of Digital Economy is finalising a set of guidelines to standardise remote working practices across the public sector, with an official circular expected later this month following consultations with relevant agencies.

Authorities are also exploring the introduction of a real-time digital monitoring system to track energy consumption, fuel stocks, and workforce attendance, allowing for more responsive decision-making.

The committee is expected to reconvene soon to review progress and determine whether the proposed measures should be expanded or extended depending on the evolving situation.

April 02, Colombo (LNW): A visiting team from the International Monetary Fund engaged in high-level discussions with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Wednesday, focusing on the country’s ongoing reform agenda and its progress under the Extended Fund Facility programme.

The meeting, which took place at the Presidential Secretariat, comes at a crucial juncture as Sri Lanka prepares for upcoming programme reviews. Talks centred on recent economic developments, with particular attention given to growth trends, fiscal performance, and the strengthening of foreign reserves.

IMF representatives acknowledged the strides made in stabilising the economy, noting that Sri Lanka has shown signs of recovery after a prolonged period of financial strain. They observed that improvements in revenue collection and macroeconomic management have helped place the country on a firmer footing.

However, both sides recognised that challenges remain. Discussions highlighted the importance of sustaining reform momentum while safeguarding overall stability. External pressures, including volatility linked to unrest in the Middle East, were identified as potential risks—especially in relation to energy costs and fuel imports.

Sri Lankan officials briefed the delegation on measures being taken to cushion the impact of reforms, particularly for vulnerable communities. They emphasised that policy decisions are being carefully calibrated to balance fiscal discipline with social protection.

President Dissanayake reiterated that the government has thus far met key programme benchmarks, adding that maintaining stability must go hand in hand with minimising hardship for the public. He stressed that the reform process should remain people-focused, even as structural adjustments continue.

The IMF delegation, led by Evan Papageorgiou, is expected to continue engagements with senior policymakers as part of its assessment of Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory and future commitments under the programme.

April 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education has issued a firm nationwide directive banning all forms of corporal punishment and psychological mistreatment of students, reinforcing a stricter stance on child protection within schools.

The move comes in the wake of recent judicial observations that called for clearer and more consistent guidelines for educators on maintaining discipline without resorting to harmful practices. Authorities say the updated instructions are intended to remove ambiguity and promote safer learning environments.

In an official circular circulated among education officials, the Ministry made it clear that no student is to be subjected to physical force, verbal abuse, or any form of emotional distress as a method of discipline. The policy underscores a zero-tolerance approach, warning that violations could result in legal consequences as well as internal disciplinary action.

The directive also revisits earlier regulations, including a 2016 circular on student discipline, and reminds school administrators that any misconduct by public servants must be addressed under the relevant provisions of the Establishments Code. Officials indicated that enforcement mechanisms would be strengthened to ensure compliance.

Schools have been urged to adopt more constructive and child-friendly approaches to discipline, focusing on guidance, counselling, and positive behavioural management. Training programmes and awareness initiatives are also expected to be expanded to support teachers in adapting to these standards.

The circular has been distributed to provincial education bodies, school principals, and senior administrators, with instructions to implement the policy uniformly. Education authorities stress that safeguarding the dignity, rights, and wellbeing of students remains a top priority across the national school system.

April 02, Colombo (LNW): Visiting Russian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Andrey Rudenko has encouraged Sri Lanka to pursue stronger energy ties with Moscow, stressing that any cooperation should be anchored in clear legal and economic frameworks rather than short-term arrangements.

Speaking during a policy dialogue hosted by the Pathfinder Foundation with participation from local media and research groups, Rudenko highlighted the broader potential for collaboration between the two countries. He suggested that while external geopolitical factors may influence decisions, Sri Lanka should focus on building sustainable partnerships that extend beyond immediate constraints.

Rudenko also pointed to Sri Lanka’s growing appeal among Russian travellers, noting that tourism could serve as a gateway for wider economic engagement. He indicated that increased visitor flows may pave the way for investments not only in trade but also in technical and service-oriented sectors, provided both nations strengthen mutual understanding and engagement.

Addressing questions about energy cooperation, he confirmed that Sri Lanka’s interest in sourcing Russian oil is currently under review. However, he emphasised that Russia is fielding similar requests from multiple countries, and any agreement would depend on resource availability and the nature of proposed terms. Long-term contracts, he added, would significantly improve the prospects of a stable arrangement.

He also referred to the recent visit by Russian Deputy Energy Minister Roman Marshavin, expressing optimism that ongoing discussions could lead to tangible outcomes in the near future. According to Rudenko, continued dialogue and follow-up engagements are expected to clarify the path towards a possible energy supply deal.

The Deputy Minister is due to hold further bilateral talks with Sri Lankan officials, focusing on expanding cooperation across several sectors. He concluded by noting that easing global tensions would benefit all parties, particularly in ensuring smoother energy trade and economic stability.

April 02, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has rolled out a landmark set of national guidelines governing the use of medical oxygen across state-run hospitals, marking a significant step towards improving patient care standards. The programme was launched under the leadership of Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa at a ceremony held in Colombo.

Developed by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with UNICEF, the guidelines are designed to bring uniformity to oxygen therapy practices while enhancing the technical expertise of healthcare personnel. Officials say the move comes amid increasing recognition of oxygen as a critical component in emergency and long-term treatment.

The initiative was spearheaded by Additional Secretary (Medical Services) Kumara Wickramasinghe, who oversaw the drafting and consolidation of the protocols before presenting them to the minister. The framework outlines best practices for oxygen administration, storage, and monitoring, aiming to reduce wastage and improve efficiency.

In parallel with the launch, an islandwide training drive has been initiated. The first group, comprising around 100 healthcare professionals including consultants and senior medical officers, has already begun specialised instruction. These participants are expected to pass on their knowledge at provincial and district levels, creating a cascading effect throughout the public health system.

Speaking at the event, Minister Jayatissa highlighted the substantial financial burden associated with maintaining oxygen supplies in hospitals. He expressed confidence that the new standards, combined with structured training, would not only streamline resource management but also elevate the overall quality of care provided to patients.

Health authorities believe that this coordinated approach will strengthen the resilience of the healthcare sector, ensuring that life-saving oxygen therapy is delivered more effectively and consistently across the country.

April 02, Colombo (LNW): The funeral of former minister Mahinda Wijesekera is scheduled to take place this Saturday, following his passing earlier today at the age of 83.

A longstanding figure in southern politics, Wijesekera was widely recognised for his decades of public service and influence within the region. His family has confirmed that the final rites will be conducted at the Matara crematorium at 4.00 p.m., with arrangements being overseen by his son, Kanchana Wijesekera.

Prior to the funeral, members of the public will have an opportunity to pay their last respects, as his remains are to be brought to the family home in Matara on Friday afternoon. It is expected that supporters, colleagues, and well-wishers from across the country will gather to honour his memory.

Wijesekera’s later years were marked by ongoing health challenges stemming from injuries he sustained in a 2009 bomb attack attributed to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. Despite the lasting impact of the incident, he remained engaged in political and community affairs, earning admiration for his resilience and commitment.

April 02, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have raised an ‘Amber’ level alert as unstable weather conditions are expected to trigger intense lightning activity across large parts of the country later today (02).

The warning, released by the Department of Meteorology early this afternoon, highlights a heightened risk of thunderstorms developing over multiple provinces.

The advisory, which remains valid until late evening, points to a strong likelihood of thundery outbreaks accompanied by frequent and potentially dangerous lightning strikes, particularly from mid-afternoon onwards.

Areas expected to be affected include much of the western and central regions, along with parts of the north-western and southern belts.

Forecasters have also cautioned that these storms could bring sudden gusts of wind and short-lived but forceful downpours, which may disrupt travel and outdoor activities. In some locations, conditions could intensify rapidly, catching residents off guard.

Emergency services and local authorities are on standby, while residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take sensible precautions. People are advised to avoid open spaces, refrain from seeking shelter under isolated trees, and unplug sensitive electrical equipment where possible.

By: Isuru Parakrama

April 02, Colombo (LNW): Amid mounting concerns over dwindling water reserves, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board has established a dedicated special operations task force to address the ongoing shortage of drinking water.

The initiative, led by the Board’s Chairman and General Manager, reflects growing urgency as prolonged dry conditions continue to strain available resources.

The newly formed committee brings together key officials with the responsibility of closely supervising water allocation and ensuring that the limited supply is managed with maximum efficiency. With reservoirs and supply systems under increasing pressure, the group is expected to play a central role in stabilising distribution across affected areas.

According to officials, the task force will maintain constant oversight of water sources, production levels, and consumption trends. Regular evaluations—both daily and weekly—will be conducted to respond swiftly to fluctuations and emerging challenges. These assessments are intended to guide timely decisions and minimise disruption to the public.

In addition to operational duties, the committee will compile detailed reports, streamline coordination among various sectors, and introduce adaptive strategies to maintain a steady supply. Authorities have indicated that contingency measures may also be introduced to safeguard essential services if conditions deteriorate further.

Efforts are already underway to reduce the likelihood of extended water cuts, with a stronger emphasis on equitable distribution and careful resource planning. These steps are expected to help sustain supply networks until rainfall replenishes depleted reserves.

The Board has also issued a strong appeal to the public, urging households and businesses to limit water usage strictly to essential needs. Responsible consumption, officials stress, will be crucial in easing pressure on the system, avoiding severe shortages, and ensuring that basic service levels can be maintained during this challenging period.