March 15, Colombo (LNW): The National Cooperative Wholesale Establishment (NCWE) has reassured the public that rice prices will remain stable during the upcoming festive season.
The organisation’s Chairman, Kosala Wilbawa, confirmed that the government has sufficient stockpiles to meet the expected demand for rice during this period, alleviating concerns over potential price increases.
Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe added that the Paddy Marketing Board has already begun releasing 50,000 metric tonnes of rice into the market to ensure steady supply.
Speaking during a visit to government rice reserves in Marandagahamula, the Minister highlighted that these stocks were sourced during the previous Yala season through a government-backed initiative, which saw paddy being bought from local farmers at guaranteed prices.
In an effort to efficiently distribute the rice across the nation, the NCWE is working closely with retail outlets, cooperatives, and Lanka Sathosa stores, ensuring that rice reaches the public without disruption. On a daily basis, over 300 metric tonnes of rice are being processed and distributed to maintain a consistent supply throughout the country.
Looking ahead, Minister Samarasinghe also revealed that the government intends to purchase over 100,000 metric tonnes of paddy during the current Maha season, as part of efforts to bolster national food security and maintain a stable food supply for the country.
No Price Hikes for Rice Expected During Upcoming Festive Season
Heat Advisory Issued for Several Regions amidst Rising Temperatures Across Sri Lanka
March 15, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Meteorology has issued a public advisory warning that elevated heat levels are expected to affect several parts of the country today, with the heat index likely to reach cautionary levels in multiple districts.
According to meteorologists, the heat index—which reflects how hot the weather feels to the human body when humidity is taken into account—may rise to levels that could cause discomfort or mild health effects, particularly for those engaged in outdoor activities for prolonged periods.
The advisory covers the Western Province, Sabaragamuwa Province, Southern Province, and North Western Province, along with several districts including Monaragala, Mannar, Anuradhapura, and Vavuniya.
Health officials have advised residents in these areas to stay hydrated, limit direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, and take extra precautions for children, the elderly and individuals with health conditions.
Despite the prevailing heat, the Meteorology Department also indicated that weather conditions could change tomorrow. Forecasts suggest that showers or thundershowers may develop after 2.00 p.m. in parts of the Central Province, Uva Province, Western Province, Sabaragamuwa Province, and North Western Province.
Isolated evening rainfall is also expected in districts such as Galle, Matara, Mannar, and Anuradhapura, which could provide temporary relief from the current heat.
Authorities have encouraged the public to remain alert to weather updates and follow safety guidance as conditions evolve over the coming days.
Fuel Not Issued to Cans or Bottles Under New QR System as Nationwide Distribution Begins
By: Isuru Parakrama
March 15, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have confirmed that petrol and diesel will no longer be issued to cans, bottles or other containers under the country’s newly introduced QR-based fuel distribution programme, which came into effect across Sri Lanka this morning.
According to the Managing Director of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO), Mayura Neththikumarage, the implementation of the system has not resulted in a fuel shortage. He stated that supplies remain stable and that the new mechanism is primarily intended to regulate distribution and prevent misuse.
Speaking to the media, Neththikumarage also revealed that preliminary discussions have already taken place with several international partners, including India and China, regarding the possibility of obtaining additional fuel stocks should an urgent requirement arise. He described the talks as productive and said the country would be able to secure supplies if necessary.
Fuel distribution through the QR system officially commenced at 6.00 a.m. today (15). Priority during the initial stage has been given to motorists who had previously registered and obtained QR codes along with their corresponding vehicle and mobile phone details. Officials confirmed that QR codes issued earlier remain valid and can still be used under the updated system.
Motorists who have not yet registered are able to obtain their QR codes by completing the registration process through the government’s online fuel portal.
Meanwhile, Kumara Rajapaksha, Chairman of the Lanka Filling Station Owners Association, stated that fuel stations across the island successfully integrated the QR platform within a few hours of the programme’s launch. By around 8.00 to 9.00 a.m., most stations were reportedly operating fully under the new system.
Rajapaksha stressed that, under the current regulations, fuel will only be dispensed directly into registered vehicles. Filling stations have been instructed not to issue fuel to containers such as cans or bottles even if a valid QR code is presented.
He further noted that motorists must arrive at the filling station in the same vehicle that is registered under the QR code. Attempts to obtain fuel using another individual’s QR code or by arriving in a different vehicle will not be permitted.
During the briefing, Rajapaksha acknowledged that some complaints had been received from individuals who recently purchased vehicles but have not yet been able to obtain a QR code. He expressed confidence that the government would address the issue promptly to ensure that new vehicle owners are not unfairly inconvenienced.
Although several stations experienced minor technical issues while integrating the system early in the morning, he said operations have since stabilised and fuel distribution is now proceeding without major disruptions.
Rajapaksha also pointed out that filling station owners and pump attendants bear significant responsibility in implementing the new regulations, as they must ensure compliance while dealing directly with customers. He therefore appealed to the public to cooperate by arriving at stations with their registered vehicles and valid QR codes to help maintain an orderly and efficient fuel distribution process.
Government Introduces Special Fuel Distribution Measures as Supply Pressures Persist
March 15, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities have announced additional arrangements to ensure that key sectors continue to operate despite the ongoing strain on national fuel supplies.
The Ministry of Energy stated that privately operated passenger buses will be permitted to obtain fuel through depots managed by the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB). The move is intended to support the continuity of public transport services and minimise disruptions faced by daily commuters.
In addition, the Ministry revealed that a dedicated mechanism is being prepared, in collaboration with relevant state institutions, to provide fuel for vehicles engaged in essential services and activities vital to national production. This initiative is expected to prioritise sectors such as agriculture, logistics and other critical industries that rely heavily on uninterrupted fuel access.
Meanwhile, Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa called on the public to act responsibly and use fuel prudently during the current period of uncertainty.
Addressing a public gathering in Moratuwa, the minister appealed to citizens to consider the broader national interest when making decisions about travel and fuel usage. He urged people to reduce unnecessary journeys and manage their available fuel carefully rather than assuming supplies will remain readily available.
According to the minister, responsible consumption by the public will play a crucial role in helping the country maintain stability until normal supply conditions are restored.
Govt Addresses Issues Regarding QR Code Obtainment for Fuel Distribution
March 15, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities have assured the public that motorists who previously obtained QR codes for fuel purchases will be able to continue using the system with minimal disruption.
The Director General of Government Information stated that individuals who still use the same vehicle and registered mobile number will be able to update or retrieve their QR codes without complications.
However, officials acknowledged that several practical issues have arisen during the rollout of the system. Particular attention is being directed towards motorists whose vehicle ownership details have changed, those who have switched their registered telephone numbers, and individuals who have recently acquired new vehicles.
Authorities said they are currently reviewing these concerns and working to introduce solutions as quickly as possible so that affected motorists can access the fuel distribution system without unnecessary delays.
In the meantime, discussions are underway regarding special fuel allocations required for key sectors such as essential public services and agricultural activities. A decision on these arrangements is expected later today.
The Director General of Government Information also indicated that steps to address the identified issues will be implemented within the course of the day, with the aim of ensuring the smooth operation of the QR-based fuel distribution programme across the country.
Sri Lanka Reintroduces QR-Based Fuel Distribution System Amid Strain on National Reserves
By: Isuru Parakrama
March 15, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is preparing to introduce a renewed QR code system for fuel distribution as mounting geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global petroleum supply routes.
Authorities say these external pressures, combined with an unexpected surge in domestic fuel consumption, have significantly reduced the country’s available fuel reserves.
Officials noted that the current situation has made it essential to manage remaining stocks carefully in order to safeguard the country’s economic activities and ensure that fuel remains available for essential daily use.
Government sources also reported growing concern over instances where certain groups have allegedly been purchasing fuel in unusually large quantities through unofficial channels. Such practices, authorities say, risk further straining the already limited supply and could undermine efforts to ensure equitable access for the wider public.
In response, the Government of Sri Lanka will activate a nationwide QR code–based fuel distribution mechanism beginning at 6.00 a.m. on March 15, 2026. From that time onward, filling stations across the country will only dispense fuel to vehicles that present a valid QR code issued under the system.
Accessing the QR Code
Motorists who have previously registered under the fuel QR programme and whose vehicle ownership details and mobile numbers remain unchanged can retrieve their QR codes online from midnight on March 14, 2026 by logging in through the “Vehicle Login” option on the official portal. (https://fuelpass.gov.lk/)
However, individuals whose vehicle ownership or registered mobile numbers have changed since their earlier registration will be required to update their details. They may do so via the same portal from 6.00 a.m. on March 15, 2026 by selecting the “Vehicle Registration” option.
Those who have not yet registered for the system—including owners of newly registered vehicles—will also be able to enrol from 6.00 a.m. on March 15, 2026 through the same online registration process.
Authorities confirmed that fuel allocations will be determined according to vehicle categories, with the permitted litre quantities specified in an accompanying schedule.
In addition, the government plans to introduce a separate fuel distribution arrangement for vehicles engaged in essential services and key sectors of national production, ensuring that critical operations continue without disruption.
Showers, thundershowers make a comeback: Fairly heavy falls above 50 mm expected (Mar 15)
March 15, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western and Uva provinces and in Galle, Matara, Mannar and Anuradhapura districts after 2.00 pm, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (15).
Fairly heavy showers above 50 mm can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces and in Galle and Matara districts during the early hours of the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers are likely at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Mannar to Matara via Puttalam, Colombo and Galle during the evening or night.
Winds:
Winds will be easterly in direction. Wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.
State of Sea:
The sea areas around the island will be slight.
Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
High-Rise Housing Boom Signals Post-Crisis Colombo Confidence
A major new skyscraper project in central Colombo is highlighting growing confidence in Sri Lanka’s recovering property market, as developers move ahead with ambitious urban housing plans after the country’s economic turmoil.
Property giant John Keells Holdings has launched Vauxhall DSTRCT, a 60-storey residential tower along Vauxhall Street in Colombo 02. The development, introduced by its real estate arm John Keells Properties, marks the company’s first major property launch since the national financial crisis.
The strong initial response from buyers suggests renewed interest in apartment living in Colombo’s city centre. Developers confirmed that over 100 units were sold on the project’s opening day, indicating pent-up demand after several years of economic uncertainty.
Located near the commercial heart of Colombo and overlooking Beira Lake, the development is expected to attract professionals, expatriates and investors seeking centrally located homes close to business districts and urban amenities.
Chairman of John Keells Holdings, Krishan Balendra, said the project reflects confidence that Sri Lanka’s economy has begun stabilising after a prolonged period of financial stress.
He emphasised that the company had continued to complete its projects even during difficult periods, including the recent economic crisis, reinforcing its reputation for delivering large-scale developments.
The Vauxhall DSTRCT project will include apartments ranging from compact one-bedroom units to larger four-bedroom residences. Developers say the design focuses on modern urban lifestyles, with facilities such as fitness areas, recreational spaces and shared community zones.
In addition, the building will incorporate smart-technology features aimed at improving convenience, energy efficiency and security for residents. These systems build on technology first introduced in TRIZEN Colombo.
According to Nayana Mawilmada, President of Property and Leisure at John Keells Holdings, apartment living is becoming increasingly attractive in Colombo as the city’s urban landscape evolves.
With land availability in central Colombo shrinking, vertical housing developments are becoming an increasingly important part of urban planning.
He also pointed to a recent surge in the rental market, suggesting that investors are once again viewing Colombo apartments as a profitable asset class.
Over the past two decades, John Keells Properties has been responsible for several prominent residential developments including OnThree20, 7th Sense Residences and the residential towers at Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka.
Industry observers say the launch of Vauxhall DSTRCT could signal a broader revival in Colombo’s real estate sector.
While economic risks remain, improved macroeconomic stability and rising demand for urban housing are encouraging developers to restart long-delayed projects.
If this trend continues, analysts believe Colombo’s skyline could see another wave of high-rise residential developments as Sri Lanka’s property market gradually regains momentum.
Import Delays and Policy Gaps Risk Repeating Fertiliser Disaster
Sri Lanka’s fragile agricultural recovery could face a new setback as warnings emerge about a possible fertiliser shortage caused by policy inconsistency, weak institutional coordination, and delayed procurement decisions.
Farmers’ representatives say the Government’s current approach risks repeating the mistakes that triggered the country’s agricultural crisis in 2021, when sudden policy changes disrupted fertiliser supply chains and reduced crop yields nationwide.
The alarm has been raised by the National Agrarian Union, which argues that authorities are failing to secure adequate fertiliser supplies despite rising global uncertainties.
Union President Anuradha Tennakoon says official claims that Sri Lanka holds fertiliser stocks sufficient for two years do not reflect practical realities. He disputes statements made by Deputy Agriculture Minister Namal Karunarathne, who recently assured the public that fertiliser availability would not be a problem in the near future.
According to Tennakoon, the problem is not merely about quantity but also about storage conditions and supply reliability.
Chemical fertilisers such as urea degrade when stored for extended periods, particularly in tropical climates where humidity and temperature accelerate chemical changes.
“If fertiliser is stored too long, it can lose effectiveness,” he warned, adding that relying on ageing stocks could compromise agricultural productivity.
The dispute also exposes questions about the role of state institutions responsible for fertiliser distribution. Sri Lanka maintains three major government bodies tasked with managing supplies—the National Fertiliser Secretariat, Ceylon Fertiliser Company Limited, and Colombo Commercial Fertiliser Company Ltd.
However, critics claim these institutions have become largely administrative, while private companies dominate the actual import process.
Such dependence on private importers, they argue, limits government control over procurement costs and timing.
Meanwhile, global market conditions are becoming increasingly volatile. Fertiliser production is heavily concentrated in a few regions, particularly the Middle East. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Qatar, and Egypt together account for nearly half of the world’s urea exports.
Rising geopolitical tensions in that region could disrupt supply chains and push global prices sharply higher. Analysts warn that if conflict escalates, fertiliser prices could increase by more than 200 percent.
For Sri Lankan farmers, the impact could be severe. Industry estimates suggest the price of a standard 50-kilogram bag of urea could rise to between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 20,000 if international markets tighten.
The broader implications extend beyond agriculture. Higher fertiliser costs could lead to lower crop yields, rising food prices, and renewed pressure on household incomes.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development has already warned about growing global threats to food security due to supply disruptions and geopolitical instability.
Sri Lanka’s experience with the 2021 Sri Lanka organic fertiliser policy serves as a stark reminder of how policy missteps can destabilise agricultural production.
Analysts say avoiding another crisis will require clear procurement strategies, stronger oversight of fertiliser imports, and long-term planning to stabilise supply chains.
Without these reforms, the country risks facing a familiar scenario: fertiliser shortages that cascade into falling harvests, food inflation, and deeper economic strain.
Tourism Land Leasing Boom Faces Infrastructure and Investor Reality
Sri Lanka’s strategy of leasing large tracts of coastal land to attract tourism investors is increasingly being questioned by policy analysts who argue that the country is prioritising land allocation over sustainable planning.
A recent policy brief by the Centre for a Smart Future highlights how weaknesses in governance, environmental planning, and infrastructure have already slowed major tourism projects, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the Government’s current investment drive.
Authorities, led by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), have identified approximately 3,000 acres of coastal land for potential tourism development. The initiative aims to attract international investors and boost the country’s accommodation capacity as Sri Lanka seeks to strengthen its position in the competitive global tourism market.
But analysts say land availability alone does not translate into successful tourism investment.
The study points to the troubled legacy of the Kalpitiya Integrated Tourism Resort Program, one of Sri Lanka’s flagship resort development initiatives. Launched in 2010, the project envisioned transforming the Kalpitiya peninsula into a world-class tourism hub by leasing 10 islands to private investors.
The plan projected 4,000 hotel rooms and up to 18,000 jobs, but most of the developments remain incomplete or have yet to begin.
In several cases, construction approvals have stalled due to regulatory delays, environmental concerns, or conflicts with local fishing communities who rely heavily on lagoon resources for their livelihoods.
Environmental fragility has also undermined investor confidence. Many of the proposed resort sites are vulnerable to storms and flooding, while freshwater availability remains limited. Efforts to restore mangroves in the region have achieved survival rates of just 18–22 percent, illustrating the delicate ecological balance of the lagoon environment.
Infrastructure shortages further complicate the situation. Waste management systems are insufficient for the scale of tourism envisioned, while healthcare services remain minimal. Kalpitiya’s main hospital is a small 40-bed district facility staffed by only four doctors, with no specialists available.
Regulatory procedures also remain cumbersome. Tourism developers must obtain approvals from agencies including the Coastal Conservation Department, Central Environmental Authority, and Urban Development Authority. Environmental impact approvals alone can take several months.
A review of 250 environmental assessments revealed troubling gaps in the regulatory process. Many reports failed to disclose data sources or explain how environmental and social impacts were evaluated, leaving policymakers and communities with limited clarity on project risks.
Meanwhile, global developments are adding new economic pressure. Tourism analysts estimate that travel disruptions linked to the Gulf conflict could reduce arrivals from Middle Eastern markets traditionally an important source of visitors to Sri Lanka resulting in tourism revenue losses of roughly $450 million in 2026.
Experts say the current approach treats tourism destinations merely as land investment opportunities rather than complex economic and ecological systems.
The report recommends a shift toward evidence-based tourism planning, including pre-lease feasibility assessments that examine environmental suitability, infrastructure capacity, governance readiness, and local community acceptance.
Such reforms, researchers argue, could reduce investor risk, prevent long-term project delays, and ensure tourism development supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Without these changes, Sri Lanka risks repeating a familiar pattern: ambitious tourism masterplans that promise transformation but ultimately struggle to move beyond the drawing board.