March 10, Colombo (LNW): The National Transport Commission (NTC) has confirmed that bus fares will remain unchanged for the time being, even after the recent rise in fuel prices announced by the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation.
NTC Director General Dr. Nilan Miranda stated that although diesel prices were increased from midnight on March 09, the adjustment does not meet the threshold required to trigger a revision of public bus fares under the existing pricing formula.
As a result, passengers travelling on both state-run and private buses will continue to pay according to the current fare structure. Transport authorities indicated that the situation will continue to be monitored, but no immediate changes are planned.
The announcement comes after Ceypetco introduced a notable increase in fuel prices following a surge in global oil markets, largely influenced by escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Bus Fares to Remain Unchanged Despite Latest Fuel Price Increase
Fuel Prices Increased Nationwide Amid Global Oil Market Surge
March 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has announced a fresh increase in fuel prices, with the state-owned Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) revising retail rates from midnight today (09) following a sharp rise in global crude oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Under the new pricing structure, the cost of Auto Diesel has risen by Rs. 22 per litre, bringing the price to Rs. 303. Super Diesel has increased by Rs. 24 and will now retail at Rs. 353 per litre.
Petrol prices have also been adjusted upwards. The price of Petrol 92 Octane has climbed by Rs. 24 to Rs. 317 per litre, while Petrol 95 Octane has been increased by Rs. 25, taking the new price to Rs. 365 per litre.
Kerosene, which is widely used by low-income households and the fisheries sector, has also seen a price rise of Rs. 13 per litre and will now be sold at Rs. 195.
Officials noted that Lanka IOC, the other major fuel distributor operating in the country, has introduced similar price adjustments to align with the revised rates set by Ceypetco.
The increase comes amid continued volatility in international oil markets. Economists warn that the conflict in the Middle East has tightened global supply conditions and pushed crude prices sharply higher.
A few districts to witness showers: Dry weather to prevail elsewhere (Mar 10)
March 10, Colombo (LNW): A few showers are likely in Northern province and in Trincomalee and Anuradhapura districts, the Department of Meteorology said today (10).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Sabaragamuwa province and in Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts after 2.00 pm.
Mainly dry weather will prevail elsewhere over the island.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and North-western provinces and in Anuradhapura, Mannar, Galle and Matara districts during the early hours of the morning.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
A few showers are likely in the sea areas off the coasty extending from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu. Mainly fair weather will prevail over other sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Winds will be easterly to northeasterly in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Galle via Trincomalee, Pottuvil and Hambantota. Winds will be variable in direction in the other sea areas around the island. Wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.
Wind speed can increase to 40 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Puttalam via Mannar.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Puttalam via Mannar will be moderate at times. The other sea areas around the island will be slight.
National Export Awards Honours Ceylon Agro Industries for Export Excellence
BY : Rashika Hennayake
March 09, Colombo (LNW): : Ceylon Agro Industries, Prima Group Sri Lanka, has been honoured with the Bronze Award in the Confectionery Products – Large Sector category at the prestigious National Export Awards 2025, organised by the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka (NCE).
The company’s achievement in the highly competitive Large Sector category marks a significant milestone for Prima KottuMee, the flagship brand under the Prima Consumer Brand portfolio, highlighting its expanding international presence and contribution to strengthening the country’s export profile. The recognition reflects the brand’s focus on quality manufacturing and innovation while reinforcing its ability to stand confidently alongside established global players in highly competitive markets.
The NCE Export Awards are recognised as one of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious platforms for honouring exporters who play a pivotal role in advancing the nation’s economic growth and strengthening its presence in international trade.
Sajith Gunaratne, General Manager of Ceylon Agro Industries Ltd, Prima Group Sri Lanka, remarked that as a first-time entrant, winning the Bronze Award in the Large Sector category at the NCE Export Awards is a proud moment for Ceylon Agro Industries and its flagship brand Prima KottuMee. He noted that the achievement is a testament not only to the brand’s dedication but also to the contributions of its valued distributors across the international markets, who played a key role in making this recognition possible. He highlighted that the company remains committed to upholding its industry leadership and continuing to pursue excellence in all its endeavours as a truly Sri Lankan brand loved internationally.
Renowned for blending authentic flavours with creative taste innovations, Prima KottuMee has earned its place as a favourite among noodle enthusiasts, with its export markets spanning over 25 countries, including Australia, Italy, the Maldives, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. Building on this momentum, the brand aims to further reinforce its position as an ambassador for Sri Lankan exports on the world stage.
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Left to Right: Ms. Marina Heshani, Manager – Exports; Mr. Achala Ramanayeka, Head of International Marketing & Business Development; and Mr. Sajith Gunaratne, General Manager of Ceylon Agro Industries Ltd., Prima Group Sri Lanka, receiving the Bronze Award in the Confectionery Products – Large Sector category at the prestigious National Export Awards 2025
Preserved Body of Beloved Elephant Nedungamuwe Raja to Go on Public Display
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By: Pramod Chinthaka Peiris
March 09, Colombo (LNW): The preserved remains of the celebrated elephant Nedungamuwe Raja will be opened to the public from March 11, 2026, with museum authorities stating that the specimen could remain intact for centuries if maintained under proper conditions.
The announcement was made during a media briefing at the Government Information Department, where officials explained the extensive conservation work carried out to restore the elephant after its death in 2022. The animal, widely admired across the country and later declared a national treasure, had been entrusted to the Department of National Museums for preservation on the day it died.
Retired leather conservation specialist Chamalka Kothalawala, who was involved in the restoration effort, said the preservation of such a large animal is a highly intricate undertaking that blends scientific methodology with craftsmanship. According to her, the process began with a careful examination of the elephant’s measurements, body structure and posture in order to accurately recreate its original form.
She explained that specialists then used recognised taxidermy and conservation techniques to reconstruct the body and preserve the hide. If the specimen is kept in controlled environmental conditions, she noted, it could potentially remain undamaged for hundreds of years, possibly up to five centuries.
Director General of the Department of National Museums Sanoja Kasthuriarachchi said the project was carried out under a heritage preservation initiative aimed at safeguarding historically significant animals. She added that the work had now been completed using modern conservation practices designed to prevent deterioration.
Kasthuriarachchi also revealed that the department received the elephant’s body following a request from the Diyawadana Nilame of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, with the consent of veterinarian Dr. Harsha Dharmawijaya, who had been responsible for the animal during its lifetime.
Nedungamuwe Raja had been a familiar and much-loved figure in Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape, having carried the sacred casket in the annual Esala Perahera procession in Kandy for many years. Because the elephant was so widely recognised, museum experts faced the challenge of recreating its appearance in a way that accurately reflected its distinctive stance and features.
Officials said the department’s craftsmen successfully reproduced the elephant’s natural posture through a combination of scientific study and skilled artistic work.
Deputy Director of the Zoology Division, Lankani Somaratne, disclosed that the preservation process itself cost approximately Rs. 7 million. A further Rs. 16 million was spent on constructing a specially designed display chamber fitted with climate control and humidity-regulation systems to protect the specimen over the long term. In total, the project required an investment of roughly Rs. 25 to 27 million.
Meanwhile, museum authorities also outlined plans to upgrade Sri Lanka’s national museum network in the coming years. New technology-driven exhibitions and interactive programmes are expected to be introduced in an effort to attract younger visitors and encourage greater public interest in the country’s museums and heritage collections.
Former MP Sajin Vass Gunawardena Arrested Over Alleged Illegal Wealth
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Former parliamentarian Sajin Vass Gunawardena has been taken into custody by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) in connection with an investigation into the alleged acquisition of assets valued at more than Rs. 243 million through unlawful means.
Officials confirmed that the arrest took place this morning (09) when Gunawardena arrived at the Bribery Commission’s office to give a statement to investigators. He had reportedly been summoned to assist with an ongoing inquiry examining his financial dealings and the origins of certain properties and assets believed to be linked to him.
According to authorities, the investigation focuses on claims that the former legislator accumulated wealth amounting to approximately Rs. 243.8 million that may not be supported by legitimate sources of income.
Gunawardena was questioned by officials shortly after his arrival before being formally placed under arrest.
CB Chief Says Sri Lanka Better Equipped to Handle Oil Price Shocks
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is now in a stronger position to cope with fluctuations in global oil prices compared with the situation during its recent economic crisis, according to Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe.
Speaking in a televised interview with Bloomberg, the governor said the country’s current economic stability provides a degree of protection against external pressures, including the recent surge in international petroleum prices. He noted that inflation presently stands at around 1.6 per cent, significantly below the Central Bank’s medium-term target of 5 per cent.
Dr. Weerasinghe explained that while rising energy prices can still influence inflation and put pressure on the country’s balance of payments, Sri Lanka now possesses far stronger financial safeguards than it did during the severe economic turmoil of 2022 and 2023. At the height of that crisis, inflation had surged to nearly 70 per cent, severely affecting households and businesses.
One of the key improvements, he said, is the recovery in the country’s external reserves. Foreign exchange reserves have climbed to more than seven billion US dollars, compared with the near-depleted levels experienced during the height of the crisis. These reserves, he added, serve as an important buffer in the event of global economic shocks.
The governor also highlighted the Central Bank’s inflation-targeting framework, which allows the exchange rate to adjust according to market conditions. This flexibility helps absorb external shocks by moderating demand and easing cost pressures within the economy.
However, Dr. Weerasinghe warned that prolonged geopolitical instability could still present risks. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East, for instance, may drive global energy prices higher and disrupt sectors such as tourism, international shipping and supply chains that are vital to Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.
He stressed that maintaining economic resilience will require continued efforts to strengthen fiscal discipline, monetary policy and external sector management. Building additional financial buffers, he said, remains essential to ensure the country can withstand future global uncertainties while safeguarding its economic stability.
Global Markets Rattled as Oil Prices Soar Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict
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By: Isuru Parakrama
March 09, World (LNW): International commodity markets experienced sharp turbulence on Monday (09) as crude oil prices surged dramatically amid mounting tensions in the Middle East, raising fears of a prolonged disruption to global energy supplies, international news agencies claim.
Benchmark Brent crude jumped roughly 25 per cent during trading, reaching its highest level since mid-2022 and heading towards what analysts say could become its largest single-day increase on record, according to Reuters.
US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) also climbed steeply, with both benchmarks briefly touching around 119 dollars per barrel.
The surge was largely driven by concerns that the intensifying confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel could significantly restrict oil exports from the region. Market participants are particularly anxious about potential disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
Analysts say the absence of a clear diplomatic path to de-escalation has amplified market volatility. According to market observers, investors fear the conflict could evolve into a prolonged standoff, with neither side appearing willing to retreat, increasing the likelihood of wider economic repercussions.
Oil-producing nations in the Middle East have reportedly begun scaling back output as logistical challenges and storage constraints emerge. Producers in countries such as Iraq, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates are said to have reduced production levels, further tightening global supply.
The dramatic rally in crude prices quickly spilled over into agricultural markets. Edible oil prices surged, as vegetable oils are widely used in the production of biofuels and tend to move in tandem with energy markets. Malaysian palm oil recorded a sharp rise, while soybean oil futures in Chicago climbed to their highest level in more than two years.
Grain markets also reacted strongly. Wheat prices advanced to their highest point since mid-2024, while corn futures reached levels not seen for around ten months as investors anticipated increased demand for alternative energy feedstocks.
Meanwhile, precious metals moved in the opposite direction. Gold dropped by more than two per cent as the US dollar strengthened, making dollar-priced bullion more expensive for investors using other currencies. Rising energy costs have also heightened concerns about inflation, prompting traders to scale back expectations of imminent interest-rate cuts by major central banks.
In industrial metals, aluminium posted a significant gain, climbing to its highest price in roughly four years amid fears that production and shipments from the Middle East could be disrupted by the conflict. Some regional smelters have already declared force majeure on deliveries due to escalating tensions.
However, other base metals struggled to maintain momentum, weighed down by the stronger US dollar, which tends to pressure commodity prices globally. Market analysts warn that if geopolitical tensions continue to intensify, volatility across energy, metals and agricultural markets is likely to persist.
Litro Assures Steady LPG Supply with Regular Monthly Shipments
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Litro Gas Lanka Limited has reaffirmed that it is maintaining a consistent import schedule to guarantee an uninterrupted supply of cooking gas for millions of households across Sri Lanka.
In a recent statement, the state-run LP gas vendor asserted that it continues to bring in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) on a monthly basis to meet the needs of more than four million domestic consumers who depend on the fuel for everyday cooking and household use.
According to the company, its LPG stocks are procured through Switzerland-based supplier Geogas, with cargo shipments transported to Sri Lanka through established maritime routes. The consignments are typically dispatched from Paulsboro in the United States and delivered to the Port of Colombo.
Litro noted that the structured shipping timetable allows vessels carrying LPG to arrive in the country regularly each month, helping the company maintain adequate reserves and avoid shortages in the local market.
Company officials added that this steady supply chain arrangement enables the distributor to keep its island-wide network of dealers stocked, ensuring that households continue to receive cooking gas without disruption.
Health Authorities Raise Concerns Over Heat-Related Risks to Children
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Medical professionals have cautioned that the ongoing spell of high temperatures across the country may result in a rise in health issues among children, particularly skin-related conditions and dehydration.
Health officials explained that prolonged exposure to intense heat can trigger a variety of skin problems, including prickly heat, irritation and fungal infections. Young children are considered especially susceptible, as their skin is more sensitive and they often spend extended periods playing outdoors.
Doctors also warned that hot weather significantly increases the likelihood of dehydration in children. Insufficient fluid intake during such conditions can cause symptoms such as tiredness, disturbed sleep patterns and reduced appetite, which may affect their overall wellbeing.
Experts suggest that supervised water play can be a simple way to help children lower their body temperature and remain comfortable during periods of extreme heat. Activities involving water, when properly monitored, may assist in preventing overheating.
The warning comes at a time when many schools are conducting annual sports events. Health authorities stressed that outdoor athletic activities carried out under strong sunlight could expose students to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke if precautions are not taken.
During strenuous exercise in hot weather, children tend to lose large amounts of fluids and vital minerals such as sodium and potassium through perspiration. Specialists note that an imbalance of these essential salts can interfere with important bodily functions, including those of the brain and heart.
Parents, teachers and event organisers have therefore been urged to ensure that children remain well hydrated, are given frequent rest intervals and are not subjected to prolonged periods in the sun. Officials also recommend limiting outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day and encouraging children to drink ample water and natural fluids to maintain proper hydration.