March 02, Colombo (LNW): Mainly dry weather will prevail in the most parts of the island, the Department of Meteorology said today (02).

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern and North-western provinces and in Anuradhapura and Vavuniya districts during the early hours of the morning.


Marine Weather:

Condition of Rain:
Mainly fair weather will prevail over the sea areas around the island.

Winds:
Winds will be variable in direction and wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.

State of Sea:
Sea areas around the island will be slight.

By: Staff Writer

March 01, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s electricity sector is bracing for turbulence as tensions escalate over restructuring, tariff hikes and alleged irregularities in Energy Ministry tender processes. At the heart of the storm is the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), whose reform programme now faces financial, regulatory and labour headwinds.

The immediate trigger is a Rs. 8.8 billion funding shortfall linked to a voluntary retirement scheme for over 2,000 employees. Although Cabinet approved recovering the cost through revised tariffs, the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka has rejected the proposal, arguing that consumers cannot be burdened with restructuring expenses.

This regulatory pushback has intensified friction between the Energy Ministry and oversight authorities. It also places the Government in a fiscal bind, as the power sector overhaul forms a key pillar of Sri Lanka’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

Beyond the VRS controversy lies a deeper concern: rising electricity tariffs. Consumers have already absorbed steep increases in recent years, contributing to higher production costs, inflationary pressure and reduced competitiveness. Further hikes to plug financial gaps could dampen industrial output and slow economic recovery.

Trade unions have seized on the uncertainty, warning of strike action if job security and compensation guarantees are not met. A work stoppage within the power utility would have immediate consequences, including the risk of island-wide blackouts at a time when demand remains volatile.

Adding to the strain are allegations of irregularities in Energy Ministry tender processes. Critics claim procurement decisions lack transparency, raising suspicions of malpractice and corruption that could inflate project costs and erode public trust. While official investigations remain opaque, the perception of mismanagement compounds anxiety over tariff justifications.

Economists caution that persistent governance concerns in the energy sector could deter foreign investment. Reliable and competitively priced electricity is critical for export industries and emerging sectors such as IT and manufacturing. Uncertainty over supply stability and regulatory direction threatens to undermine investor confidence.

The Energy Ministry has floated a proposal to offset VRS payments against future tariff-based revenue streams, effectively asking the Government to bridge the immediate financing gap. Yet this solution depends on stable policy execution and regulatory consensus both currently fragile.

As Sri Lanka attempts to modernise its power sector, the interplay between fiscal reform, labour relations and governance transparency will determine whether restructuring yields efficiency gains or deepens instability. With unions on edge and tariff debates intensifying, the country faces not only a funding crisis but a broader test of institutional credibility in safeguarding energy security and economic revival.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s envoy in Tel Aviv has confirmed that no Sri Lankan nationals have been reported injured following the latest wave of hostilities between Israel and Iran.

Speaking to local media, Nimal Bandara, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Israel, said the diplomatic mission has been in close contact with community leaders and individuals across the country and has so far received no information indicating harm to Sri Lankans.

The reassurance comes after Iran launched missile attacks targeting Israel in retaliation for a joint operation by the United States and Israel. In response to the heightened threat, Israeli authorities imposed sweeping emergency measures. Public gatherings were prohibited, schools and many workplaces were temporarily closed, and certain hospital patients were transferred to underground facilities as a precaution.

Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, declared a nationwide state of emergency, cautioning citizens about the possibility of further missile and drone strikes. The Israeli military has instructed residents to adhere strictly to safety advisories and avoid unnecessary travel to ensure that emergency services can operate without obstruction.

Ambassador Bandara noted that the situation remains tense but expressed hope that stability could be restored within the next couple of days if hostilities subside. He added that the Sri Lankan Embassy continues to disseminate safety guidance and real-time updates to nationals through official communication channels.

With Ben Gurion Airport currently closed, Sri Lankans planning to depart Israel — as well as those intending to travel there — have been advised to defer their journeys until further notice. The Embassy said it stands ready to provide assistance and urged Sri Lankans to remain vigilant, follow local authority directives and maintain regular contact with the mission during this uncertain period.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has unveiled a new internationally compliant investment vehicle aimed at drawing long-term foreign capital into its financial markets, marking a notable development in the country’s post-recovery economic strategy.

The Sri Lanka Opportunity Fund was formally introduced on February 25, 2026 as the nation’s first fund established under Europe’s UCITS regulatory regime — a framework widely recognised for stringent oversight, investor safeguards and high standards of transparency. The structure enables daily liquidity, offering overseas investors both flexibility and regulatory reassurance.

The fund is overseen by ACP Asset Management in partnership with ACP Corum, and is designed to provide foreign institutional and retail investors with regulated exposure to Sri Lankan equities and fixed-income securities. By operating within a European compliance structure, the initiative seeks to position Sri Lanka as a more accessible and credible frontier market destination.

Its portfolio strategy centres on listed companies on the Colombo Stock Exchange, with emphasis on banking, consumer-driven businesses and export-oriented sectors. In addition, the fund allocates capital to Sri Lankan sovereign bonds and selected high-grade corporate debt instruments denominated in both US dollars and Sri Lankan rupees. At least 30 per cent of its holdings are maintained in liquid assets to facilitate daily redemptions.

The vehicle attracted an initial subscription of 20 million US dollars at launch, with a further 30 million dollars pledged by prospective investors — an early signal of confidence in Sri Lanka’s stabilising macroeconomic outlook.

Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe described the initiative as a milestone for the country’s capital markets, noting that adherence to European regulatory standards enhances credibility and transparency. He added that such structures are vital for restoring investor trust and broadening participation in Sri Lanka’s financial sector.

Market analysts suggest the fund could contribute to increased liquidity and depth at the Colombo bourse, while also supporting the Government’s broader objective of sustainable, investment-led growth.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya has announced plans to establish a special committee tasked with drawing up a comprehensive national policy on medical education, following appeals from student representatives who have long called for clearer direction and reform in the sector.

The proposal emerged during a meeting held on February 27 at Temple Trees with members of the Medical Faculty Students’ Action Committee. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the discussion centred on long-standing concerns within state universities, including internship placements, accommodation shortages and transport challenges faced by medical undergraduates and recent graduates.

Dr Amarasuriya invited student unions and other stakeholders to submit written proposals and recommendations, assuring them that the policy would be shaped through consultation rather than imposed unilaterally.

She stressed that safeguarding academic freedom and students’ right to express their views would remain a priority, adding that further dialogue would be held with university Vice-Chancellors in the coming weeks.

Representatives from the Ministry of Health acknowledged that delays in assigning internship training posts have largely stemmed from accommodation constraints at teaching hospitals.

They indicated that approval has been sought to designate five additional hospitals for internship training, a move expected to ease bottlenecks and expand opportunities for newly qualified doctors.

Meanwhile, officials from the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education confirmed that funding has already been earmarked for new hostel facilities at several universities, including Wayamba, Sabaragamuwa and Moratuwa. Construction is expected to commence once land allocation formalities are finalised.

Transport difficulties affecting trainees attached to the Kurunegala and Kuliyapitiya faculties were also raised. Authorities said discussions would be initiated with the Sri Lanka Transport Board to explore dedicated services or revised schedules to support medical trainees.

Officials further clarified that no decision has been taken to halt post-intern appointments and that efforts are under way to upgrade infrastructure within medical faculties islandwide.

The meeting was attended by senior government officials, university administrators and representatives of the students’ committee, marking what participants described as a constructive step towards long-term reform in Sri Lanka’s medical education system.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Saudi Arabia has called on Sri Lankan citizens living in the Kingdom to exercise heightened vigilance as tensions continue to unfold across parts of the Middle East.

In a public advisory released this week, the mission encouraged nationals to remain calm but alert, and to depend exclusively on verified announcements issued by Saudi authorities and official diplomatic channels. The Embassy cautioned against being misled by speculation or unconfirmed reports circulating on social media.

Sri Lankans have been strongly urged to comply fully with any directives or security guidance issued by the Government of Saudi Arabia. They are also advised to stay in close contact with the Sri Lankan diplomatic offices in the country, including the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah, should the need arise.

The notice further recommends avoiding travel to locations where security alerts are in force and discourages the sharing of unverified information that could create unnecessary alarm within the community. Citizens have been reminded to keep passports, residency permits and other identification documents readily accessible at all times in case of emergency checks or travel requirements.

To strengthen support services, the Embassy has activated round-the-clock emergency hotlines. Assistance can be sought by calling +966 54 947 7567 or +966 56 982 2700. For WhatsApp or IMO communication, individuals may contact +966 56 975 3380. Queries may also be directed via email to [email protected].

The mission reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Sri Lankans in Saudi Arabia and stated that it will continue to monitor developments closely while issuing further updates as necessary.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): A week-long nationwide campaign aimed at tackling drug abuse and trafficking begins today (01), marking a renewed push by the Government to confront the country’s growing narcotics problem.

Branded as “National Drug Prevention Week”, the initiative runs alongside the broader “A Nation United” programme, a coordinated effort designed to eliminate the influence of illegal drugs from communities across the island.

The move to dedicate a special week to prevention and awareness was endorsed by the National Operations Council overseeing the flagship campaign.

In line with Public Administration Circular 29/2025, the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has formally instructed state institutions to observe the week with targeted activities and outreach programmes.

Authorities say the campaign is not limited to enforcement alone. While law enforcement agencies will continue crackdowns on trafficking networks and illegal distribution, a strong emphasis will also be placed on rehabilitation and reintegration of those struggling with addiction. Officials stress that prevention, education and early intervention remain central to long-term success.

Throughout the week, government offices, schools and affiliated institutions will host seminars, workshops and awareness sessions. Teachers and students are among the key focus groups, with tailored educational materials being introduced to highlight the health, social and legal consequences of drug use.

Public messaging will also extend beyond classrooms and offices. Awareness material is set to be displayed on buses, three-wheelers and school transport vehicles, ensuring the campaign reaches commuters and local communities. Organisers say this multi-pronged approach is intended to spark open discussion and encourage families to engage more actively in prevention efforts.

Officials expressed confidence that sustained public engagement, combined with firm legal action and accessible rehabilitation services, will strengthen the country’s resolve to overcome the narcotics threat and build safer communities.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism has announced that it is keeping a close watch on the wellbeing of Sri Lankan citizens living in parts of the Middle East affected by the current escalation of hostilities.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Ministry said it is maintaining constant contact with Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions across the region to assess developments and provide timely assistance where required. Officials noted that embassies and consulates have been instructed to remain on heightened alert and to extend all necessary support to nationals.

Sri Lankans residing in the impacted countries have been strongly advised to adhere strictly to directives issued by local authorities, including any security or movement restrictions. They have also been encouraged to remain in regular contact with the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or High Commission and to register their details if they have not already done so.

To strengthen its response, the Ministry has activated a 24-hour Emergency Operations Centre at the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment. The centre will coordinate assistance, gather information, and respond to urgent requests from families both overseas and in Sri Lanka.

Those requiring immediate help may reach officials via WhatsApp or Imo on +94 71 980 2822 or by calling the dedicated hotline 1989. The Ministry reassured the public that contingency plans are in place and said further updates would be issued as the situation evolves.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) has assured the public that fuel consignments scheduled for April and May will arrive as planned, dismissing fears of shortages stemming from the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking at a briefing in Colombo, CEYPETCO Chairman D. J. Rajakaruna emphasised that Sri Lanka’s petroleum imports are sourced outside the present conflict-affected zone. He clarified that upcoming shipments are due from India and Singapore, and therefore remain unaffected by the regional instability.

He urged motorists not to panic, stressing that there is no justification for long queues at filling stations. “We wish to make this clear in a responsible manner. There is no need for unnecessary rush or hoarding,” he said.

Although fuel distribution had not initially been scheduled for today (01), the CEYPETCO moved swiftly to resume islandwide deliveries after noticing an unexpected spike in demand. Staff were recalled to duty to manage the situation, and fuel releases have now recommenced. The Chairman further confirmed that supplies will continue uninterrupted tomorrow (02), despite the Poya public holiday.

In a bid to curb hoarding and potential black-market activity, the CEYPETCO has instructed all filling stations not to dispense fuel into cans, barrels or other bulk containers. Rajakaruna warned that strict legal action would be taken against individuals attempting to purchase fuel in large quantities for resale.

The corporation reiterated that adequate stocks are available and appealed to the public to remain calm, assuring that contingency measures are in place to maintain steady distribution across the country.

March 01, Colombo (LNW): SriLankan Airlines has suspended all flights to and from several Middle Eastern destinations scheduled for today (01), citing heightened security concerns as tensions continue to intensify across the region.

The decision follows a similar suspension yesterday, when the carrier halted departures from Colombo to key Gulf cities after a sharp escalation in hostilities involving Iran, the United States and Israel. With airspace uncertainty and safety risks mounting, the airline confirmed that operations to affected destinations would remain paused until conditions stabilise.

Today’s cancellations impact services between Colombo and Dubai, Doha, Dammam, Riyadh and Kuwait, with both outbound and inbound sectors withdrawn. The airline stated that the precautionary measure was taken solely in the interest of safeguarding passengers, crew and aircraft.

A spokesperson noted that the situation is being closely monitored in coordination with international aviation authorities and regional partners. “The safety and wellbeing of our passengers and staff remain our highest priority,” the airline said, adding that further updates would be issued as developments unfold.

Passengers booked on the disrupted flights are advised to seek rebooking or refund options through the airline’s Global Contact Centre by dialling 1979 within Sri Lanka or +94 11 777 1979 from overseas. Assistance is also available via WhatsApp on +94 74 444 1979 (chat only), through authorised travel agents, or by visiting the airline’s official website.

Travellers have been urged to remain patient as operational adjustments continue, with the airline assuring customers that every effort is being made to minimise inconvenience during this volatile period.