February 22, Colombo (LNW): Landslide warnings at the highest ‘Red’ level have been lifted in several districts, according to Disaster Management Centre (DMC) Director Pradeep Kodippili.
Following fresh safety assessments, residents who had earlier been evacuated from high-risk zones are now being permitted to return to their homes. Officials confirmed that inspections were carried out to ensure that conditions in the affected localities were stable before granting clearance for resettlement.
However, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has decided to retain ‘Red’ level landslide warnings in selected Divisional Secretariat areas within the Kandy District, where ground conditions remain a concern.
Mr Kodippili noted that, apart from isolated disruptions, the overall situation has improved considerably. As of this morning, flooding has been reported only along the Somawathiya road, while previously affected routes elsewhere have now been reopened to traffic.
Meanwhile, authorities have confirmed that the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examination will proceed today (23) as planned. The DMC has been working in close coordination with the Department of Examinations to ensure that contingency arrangements are in place should any emergency arise.
Measures include providing transport for students in vulnerable areas, maintaining clear access to examination centres, and ensuring that test proceedings continue without interruption. Emergency operation centres across the island remain fully functional, with personnel deployed on standby.
Officers assigned to the 117 emergency hotline are operating round the clock, supported by district disaster management units, the Tri-Forces, the Police and technical response teams, all prepared to respond swiftly to any developments.
The DMC has urged members of the public to stay alert and to rely solely on official weather bulletins and advisories for accurate updates as conditions continue to be monitored.
Red Landslide Alerts Withdrawn Across Most Districts as Authorities Maintain Vigilance
Prevailing showery conditions expected to reduce (Feb 23)
February 23, Colombo (LNW): The prevailing rainy conditions are expected to reduce from today (23) as the low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal moves away from the island.
Several spells of showers will occur in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee district.
Showers or thundershowers are likely at a few places in Galle, Matara, Rathnapura and Hambantota districts after 2.00 p.m.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces and in Ampara and Hambantota 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:
The atmospheric disturbance that prevailed over the Bay of Bengal has developed into a low-pressure area and is currently located to the northeast of Sri Lanka. Under the influence of this system, heavy showers or thundershowers, Strong wind gust about (50-60) kmph are possible. Hence sea areas may be rough in the aforementioned sea areas.
Navel and fishing communities are requested to be attentive to the future forecasts and bulletins issued by the Department of Meteorology in this regard.
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Mannar to Batticaloa via Kankasanthurai and Trincomalee. Showers may occur at a few places in the other sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Winds will be North-westerly in the sea areas around the island. Wind speed will be (20-40) kmph.
State of Sea:
The sea areas around the island will be moderate.
Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
US Supreme Court Rebuke Jolts Trump Tariffs, Sri Lanka Apparel Reels
By: Staff Writer
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The US Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision curbing former President Donald Trump’s sweeping “reciprocal” tariffs has triggered immediate tremors across global supply chains none more acutely than in Sri Lanka’s apparel sector, which had been bracing for punitive duties on exports to the United States.
In a sharply worded ruling, the Supreme Court of the United States held that the president lacked authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose ad hoc tariffs by citing a national emergency. The majority warned that such duties would represent a “transformative expansion” of executive power over taxation—an authority constitutionally vested in Congress.
For Sri Lanka, the judgment briefly lifted the cloud over billions of dollars in apparel exports, much of it destined for US retailers. The island’s garment industry already squeezed by domestic macroeconomic instability and a weaker rupee had faced the prospect of sudden price disadvantages against competitors in Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Mexico.
Nevertheless the relief may prove short-lived.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer swiftly signaled a pivot. A temporary 10 percent surcharge, he said, could be imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, alongside fresh investigations under Section 301 targeting “unjustifiable” or “discriminatory” trade practices by partners.
Section 122 allows limited short-term import restrictions to address balance-of-payments concerns, but requires procedural steps. Section 301 investigations, meanwhile, can stretch months and culminate in tailored duties. Analysts say the administration is attempting to reframe tariffs within statutory guardrails rather than broad emergency powers.
For Sri Lankan apparel exporters, uncertainty is as damaging as the tax itself. US buyers operate on tight seasonal cycles and thin margins. Even a threatened 10 percent surcharge forces contract renegotiations, inventory shifts, or sourcing diversification. Industry leaders in Colombo say American brands have already sought price concessions, citing potential tariff exposure.
The ruling also underscores a deeper constitutional battle in Washington. The court’s conservative majority often seen as sympathetic to executive power drew a line on fiscal authority. Trump lashed out at the justices as “unpatriotic,” but the bench emphasized that taxation without congressional approval upends separation of powers.
Sri Lanka’s predicament mirrors that debate. Critics at home have raised alarms over “midnight gazette” taxes imposed without broad consultation, including levies on essential goods. The Supreme Court’s intervention in the US highlights how institutional checks can recalibrate trade policy.
Still, not all tariffs are off the table. Duties on steel, imposed under different statutes, remain intact. And if Section 301 probes proceed, they could widen into sectors such as digital services, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products areas where Sri Lanka faces scrutiny over regulatory practices and impending digital service taxes encouraged by the IMF program.
For now, Sri Lanka’s apparel sector is caught between judicial restraint and executive resolve in Washington. The court may have struck down one route to higher tariffs, but alternative pathways remain open keeping exporters on edge as they navigate America’s shifting trade winds.
Government to Undertake Extensive Review of Outdated Laws
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The government has initiated a broad review of outdated laws across various sectors, with plans to modernise statutes and regulations to better reflect contemporary needs.
Professor Chandana Abayarathna, the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, revealed the government’s intentions while speaking at the launch of a programme aimed at introducing legal reforms to public officials.
The Minister confirmed that the Cabinet had granted approval on two separate occasions, under the guidance of the President, to kickstart the reform process. As part of this initiative, sub-committees from 13 key sectors and ministries have been assigned to lead the review and drafting of necessary amendments.
Minister Abayarathna highlighted that many of the current laws still in effect have their origins in the colonial era, with some rooted in legal traditions that were established long before British rule and later formalised during colonial governance. He noted that while the mere age of a law is not reason enough to repeal it, it is clear that many of these statutes need revisiting to ensure they are in harmony with modern governance practices and the evolving needs of society.
“While it’s not just the age of a law that warrants reform, many of these outdated statutes need to be reexamined to ensure they remain relevant and practical in today’s context,” the Minister explained.
In addition to updating existing laws, the government aims to streamline complex legal provisions, making them more accessible and user-friendly. The proposed reforms will focus on simplifying bureaucratic processes, improving service delivery, and making it easier for citizens to access the services they need.
The reform effort will also examine the broader legal and administrative frameworks to enhance efficiency, responsiveness, and relevance, ensuring that the legal system better serves the dynamic demands of a modern society.
Police Unveil Key Details in Lawyer and Wife’s Murder Case
February 22, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have made significant progress in the investigation into the tragic shooting of a lawyer and his wife in a supermarket car park in Akuregoda on 13 February. Following intensive inquiries, police have arrested several individuals, including one of the gunmen believed to be directly involved in the killings.
Under the direction of the Inspector General of Police, 12 police teams were mobilised to carry out a detailed investigation, resulting in the detention of nine suspects, including a critical figure identified as one of the shooters. Among the initial arrests were two brothers from Athurugiriya, who allegedly played a pivotal role in transporting the weapon used in the crime and providing details about the victims’ vehicle. A suspect known as “Polgasowita Dila,” who is believed to have orchestrated the murder, was also apprehended during the early stages of the investigation.
Further breakthroughs came when six more individuals were arrested on 22 February by the Southern Province Special Operations Unit of the Police Special Task Force in Ethkandura, Kahaduwa, for their involvement in assisting the perpetrators. Additionally, it was revealed that one accomplice, who had transported one of the gunmen to a hotel in Pannipitiya, had fled the country to Thailand through Bandaranaike International Airport.
A pivotal moment in the case came later that evening when a suspect, identified as a former Army serviceman, was apprehended in Delduwa, Ambalangoda, by officers from the Homagama Divisional Crime Investigation Bureau. The 46-year-old man, who had been discharged from the military during the 2009 general amnesty, was found staying at a friend’s house and working on a nearby cinnamon estate.
During questioning, the suspect admitted to carrying out the fatal shooting of the lawyer, using a T-56 assault rifle. He explained that after the murder, he had exited a vehicle near Kottawa and travelled to Ambalangoda by bus to evade detection. The suspect further revealed his connections to a notorious underworld figure, “Karandeniya Sudda,” stating that he had received a contract via phone to carry out the killing. In return, he was reportedly paid Rs. 1 million and provided with a stock of heroin.
Police have confirmed that the suspect, who is also a known drug addict, had previously been involved in illicit activities linked to Karandeniya Sudda. Despite the suspect’s admission to the crime, investigators have not uncovered any other murders attributed to him at this stage.
The arrested individual has since been taken to the Western Province South Crime Division for further questioning and to assist with ongoing investigations. Authorities remain committed to uncovering the full extent of the conspiracy and bringing all those involved to justice.
Sri Lanka and Thailand Explore Collaboration to Boost Gem and Jewellery Industry
February 22, Colombo (LNW): Minister of Industries Sunil Hadunneththi met with key representatives from the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) in Bangkok yesterday (21) to discuss ways to bolster the country’s gem and jewellery sector.
The meeting, which included TGJTA chairman Chomphol Phornchindarak, centred on enhancing Sri Lanka’s industry capabilities through strategic partnerships with Thailand.
Key areas of discussion included the potential for technology exchange between Sri Lanka’s renowned gem-cutting expertise and Thailand’s advanced heat treatment techniques, as well as improving access to globally recognised laboratory facilities in Thailand.
In addition, the delegation explored opportunities for both nations to collaborate in participating in major international exhibitions, promoting Sri Lankan gems to global buyers and raising the profile of Sri Lankan craftsmanship on the world stage. Dr. Chaminda Ekanayake, Chairman of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), was also present at the talks.
The initiative aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s presence in the global gem market by attracting high-value international buyers, increasing the export potential of local gem resources, and opening up new avenues for trade.
Furthermore, it is expected to provide a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s economy by fostering innovation, enhancing industry standards, and increasing job opportunities within the sector.
Rainfall Exceeding 200 mm Reported: Landslide Evacuation Orders Across Multiple Districts
February 22, Colombo (LNW): Torrential rain exceeding 200 millimetres has drenched several parts of the country in recent days, sharply elevating the threat of landslides, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has warned.
Senior Geologist Wasantha Senadeera said the sustained downpours have saturated soil layers in vulnerable hill country regions, prompting authorities to activate the highest level of precaution in a number of locations. As a result, Level 3 ‘Red’ evacuation notices have been issued to residents in 15 Divisional Secretariat divisions spanning four districts.
The affected areas include Udadumbara, Gangawata Ihala Korale, Doluwa and Yatinuwara in Kandy District; Kegalle, Yatiyanthota, Mawanella, Dehiowita and Aranayaka in Kegalle District; Laggala-Pallegama, Ambanganga Korale, Ukuwela, Wilgamuwa and Rattota in Matale District; and Ratnapura in Ratnapura District. Residents in these localities have been urged to move to designated safe centres without delay.
In addition, Level 2 (Amber) warnings — indicating a heightened state of alert — have been declared for 12 DS divisions across six districts, including Haldummulla in Badulla; Niyagama in Galle; Medadumbara and Pathadumbara in Kandy; Badalkumbura in Monaragala; several divisions in Nuwara Eliya such as Nildandhahinna, Walapane, Norwood and Ambagamuwa; as well as Kiriella, Kalawana and Ayagama in Ratnapura District.
A further 23 DS divisions in eight districts have been placed under Level 1 (Yellow) alerts, signalling the need for vigilance as ground conditions remain unstable. These cover parts of Badulla, Hambantota, Kandy, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Monaragala, Nuwara Eliya and Ratnapura districts.
Dr Senadeera noted that the warning levels are subject to change depending on rainfall patterns recorded over the coming hours. He cautioned that the cumulative effect of days of intense precipitation has significantly weakened slopes, particularly in areas with prior earth slips or ongoing construction.
The NBRO has advised motorists travelling through hilly terrain to exercise extreme care, especially along roads bordered by steep embankments. Members of the public have also been encouraged to watch for early signs of slope failure, such as cracks in walls or soil, tilting trees, or muddy water flowing unexpectedly. If heavy rain persists, residents have been urged to avoid landslide-prone zones altogether and to prioritise personal safety until conditions stabilise.
India and Sri Lanka Review Progress of US$450mn Reconstruction Programme
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that India and Sri Lanka have convened high-level talks in Colombo to assess the advancement of key reconstruction projects supported by New Delhi.
India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, jointly presided over the third review meeting alongside Sri Lanka’s Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Anil Jayantha Fernando.
The discussions were attended by senior officials from both governments, including members of the Indian High Commission and Sri Lankan line ministries overseeing project delivery.
The session centred on evaluating the rollout of initiatives financed under India’s US$450 million post-Ditwah reconstruction assistance package. Officials examined progress on infrastructure rehabilitation, housing support, and livelihood development schemes designed to bolster communities affected by recent crises.
Expert Panel to Be Appointed to Drive Education Reforms Forward
February 22, Colombo (LNW): An expert steering committee will soon be established under presidential direction to push ahead with long-planned education reforms, Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka has announced.
Addressing a public seminar in Jaffna, the Minister said the proposed body would comprise experienced educationists, curriculum specialists and policy advisers tasked with guiding and supervising the next phase of reform. The initiative, he explained, is intended to ensure that changes to the national curriculum are implemented in a structured and accountable manner.
Mr Karunathilaka acknowledged that shortcomings had recently been detected in several school textbooks, most notably within an English language module. He confirmed that disciplinary measures had been taken against those found responsible for the lapses, while an independent panel of subject experts is currently conducting a comprehensive review of the material. Revised editions are expected to be introduced once the evaluation is complete.
He further stated that the wider reform agenda is scheduled to resume from Grade Six in 2027, marking what he described as a “renewed and carefully managed rollout” of curriculum updates. The reforms are expected to place greater emphasis on language proficiency, digital literacy and critical thinking skills, in line with evolving global standards.
According to the Minister, the President’s planned steering committee will play a central role in monitoring progress, advising on policy adjustments and maintaining quality control throughout the transition period. He stressed that restoring public confidence in the education system remains a key priority, adding that sustained consultation with teachers and parents would form part of the process.
Tourism and Remittances Drive Strong Economic Gains in 2025: Minister
February 22, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka achieved notable economic progress in 2025, buoyed by a surge in visitor arrivals and a steady inflow of overseas earnings, according to Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath.
Speaking at a media networking reception in Colombo on Thursday (20), the Minister revealed that tourist arrivals reached approximately 2.36 million during the year, generating an estimated US$3.2 billion in revenue. At the same time, remittances from Sri Lankan workers abroad surpassed US$7.8 billion, underlining the continued importance of the expatriate workforce to the national economy.
Combined, tourism receipts and foreign remittances contributed close to US$11 billion, providing a significant boost to foreign exchange reserves and supporting macroeconomic stability. Mr Herath attributed the performance to renewed diplomatic outreach, improved bilateral labour agreements, targeted promotional campaigns and a series of institutional reforms aimed at restoring international confidence.
He noted that these advances align with the Government’s policy framework, “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life”, introduced under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka. According to the Minister, the administration remains focused on repositioning Sri Lanka as a competitive destination for travel, investment and skilled employment partnerships.
Mr Herath also stressed the importance of responsible journalism and open engagement with the media, observing that accurate and balanced reporting plays a crucial role in enhancing Sri Lanka’s reputation overseas and maintaining public trust at home.
Looking ahead, he identified Sri Lanka Expo 2026 as a flagship initiative intended to showcase opportunities in trade, tourism, technology and innovation. The event is expected to attract international investors and business delegations, further strengthening the country’s global economic footprint.