June 11, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Urban Development and Housing, under the direction of W.S. Sathyananda, has announced immediate actions to dismantle unauthorised constructions exacerbating flooding in Colombo and its environs.
At a briefing held at the Department of Government Information, Sathyananda outlined plans to issue a directive to all government bodies within a fortnight.
Highlighting the imperative of preserving Colombo’s wetlands and surrounding areas, Sathyananda underscored that the obstruction of small water channels and drainage systems significantly contributes to the recurring floods.
Hiran Balasuriya, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation, revealed ongoing initiatives aimed at flood mitigation in collaboration with the Urban Development Authority (UDA), Irrigation Department, Provincial Irrigation Departments, and local councils.
The comprehensive flood prevention strategy for Colombo and its surroundings will be implemented across short-term, medium-term, and long-term phases.
Projects include enhancing water supply systems beyond Colombo, an Urban Landscaping Project, Palangastuduwa Pumping Station Project, Flood Control Facility Implementation and Maintenance Project, integrating real-time control data centres, the Piliyandala Master Development Plan’s drainage enhancement, and the Battaramulla catchment area’s environmental improvement programme.
June 11, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Galle and Matara districts, with fairly heavy showers about 75 mm being likely to occur at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces, the Department of Meteorology said in its weather forecast today (11).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva province in the evening or night.
Strong winds of about (40-50) kmph can be expected at times over the Western slopes of the central hills, Northern, North-central, and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee, Hambantota and Monaragala districts.
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 will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle.
Winds:
Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (60-70) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Trincomalee to Kalpitiya via Kankasanthurai and Mannar and in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil. Wind speed may increase up to 60 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Pottuvil to Batticaloa.
State of Sea:
The sea areas extending from Kankasanthurai to Kalpitiya via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil can be very rough at times. The sea areas extending from Pottuvil to Batticaloa can be rough at times. The sea areas off the coasts extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle can be fairly rough at times. Naval and fishing communities are requested to be attentive in this regard.Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): The United States, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is supporting Sri Lanka’s efforts to improve its investment climate by enhancing access to commercial alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
This initiative has led to the US-sponsored training and accreditation of 23 international commercial mediators in Sri Lanka, doubling the number of qualified mediators in Sri Lanka capable of offering businesses a faster and less expensive alternative to traditional court litigation for resolving disputes.
Under USAID’s Efficient and Effective Justice (EEJ) project, these 23 mediators have undergone extensive training in key areas such as communication, problem-solving, managing emotions, and overcoming impasses.
The training was conducted by the Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC), a renowned independent, not-for-profit organisation specialising in ADR and ADR training.
Following a four-month mentorship program, these mediators will apply their new skills to facilitate around 100 commercial mediations in Sri Lanka by October 2026.
Commercial mediation, a key form of ADR, provides a quicker resolution for disputes between businesses, or between businesses and government or consumers.
This method is not only cost-effective but also aims to preserve business relationships. Additionally, it supports international trade by ensuring that international settlement agreements can be enforced more effectively.
At a ceremony honouring the newly trained commercial mediators, US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Doug Sonnek said: “
The United States is dedicated to collaborating with Sri Lanka to create a favourable investment climate by embracing international best practices.
This partnership not only equips mediators with essential skills to sidestep expensive litigation but also supports their ongoing development, thereby contributing to economic resilience and growth in Sri Lanka.”
USAID provides extensive support for ADR in Sri Lanka. The EEJ project collaborates with local and international experts to provide training in commercial mediation, negotiation, and ADR best practices to lawyers, law students, ADR centres, and companies.
Furthermore, EEJ is involved in pilot programs for judicial and court-referred mediation in partnership with the Court of Appeal and Commercial High Courts, aiming to resolve disputes swiftly and reduce delays and backlogs in the justice system.
Through these comprehensive initiatives, EEJ enhances the overall efficacy of the judicial process in Sri Lanka.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s economy is projected to see moderate growth of 2.2% in 2024, showing signs of stabilization, following the severe economic downturn of 2022.
But, the country’s MSMEs representing over 75% of all businesses, account for 45% of employment and contribute 52% to the GDP is gappling to survice as they were badly git by economic crisis in 2022.
Representing the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Sri Lanka United Business Alliance last week called on the Government to develop a comprehensive plan to promote entrepreneurship and tackle the challenges facing businesses in the current economic climate.
Speaking to the media, the small business leaders’ underscored the need for a cohesive strategy to encourage entrepreneurship, improve digital infrastructure and support struggling businesses to ensure sustainable economic growth.
Sri Lanka United Business Alliance Chairperson Tania Abeysundara voiced concerns over the lack of support for entrepreneurs. “We, the entrepreneurs, have become economic victims. There is no world beyond the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the Government now.
The IMF was essential to prevent the country from going bankrupt, but if it saved the economy, the President must create plans to promote entrepreneurship. Instead, the Government is only making plans that stifle the entrepreneur,” she stated.
Sri Lanka Shippers Council (SLSC) Chairman Sean Van Dort highlighted the difficulties importers and exporters face due to the reluctance to fully embrace digital solutions.
He noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, operations at Customs, Ports, and Airports were digitised, which allowed for smooth operations. However, post-pandemic, there has been a reversion to manual checks, leading to inefficiencies and corruption.
“We have to bow to these officers who don’t care about the country’s welfare but are more focused on personal gains,” Van Dort claimed.
He also alleged that the Board of Investment (BoI) verification office demands bribes and that Customs and Ports Authority are involved in undervaluation deals that deprive the Government of revenue.
Against this backdrop, Van Dort called on the Government to demonstrate strong political will and commitment to achieving 100% digitalisation, insisting on the need for a paperless environment to boost trade and competitiveness.
Footwear and Leather Industry Association President Buddhika Wimalasiri criticised the lack of support for industries amidst high electricity tariffs.
Wimalasiri also pointed out the thriving banking sector’s failure to support struggling industries, questioning the Central Bank’s regulatory role.
Small and Medium Enterprises Federation former Secretary Janaki Amarasinghe highlighted the plight of enterprises and individuals blacklisted by the Credit Information Bureau (CRIB).
“Those blacklisted by the CRIB are trapped in severe financial difficulties and it is truly shameful that none of the organisations are offering any support,” she said.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): The Police have appealed to the public for assistance in locating a suspect accused of defrauding individuals of over Rs. 17.5 million under false promises of employment opportunities in England and Poland.
The suspect allegedly perpetrated these fraudulent activities through his foreign employment agency, IMH LOGISTICS (PVT) LTD, situated at the Jana Jaya City building in Rajagiriya, according to Police.
Following an investigation initiated by the Mirihana Special Crimes Investigation Unit into the fraudulent scheme, a female suspect was apprehended and subsequently presented before the Colombo Chief Magistrate Court.
During the interrogation of the female suspect, valuable information regarding the financial deception orchestrated by the proprietor of the foreign employment agency, identified as Fernando, was uncovered.
The police have stated that details regarding the suspect’s residence and other pertinent information are currently under investigation.
Members of the public possessing information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect are urged to contact the police via the following numbers: 071-8591643 or 071-8137373.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka will call for expressions of interest (EOI) in setting up nuclear power plant. Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekara said that “the government intends to include the safe use of nuclear energy as a part of the long-term generation plans”.
He said, “The government “will call for EOIs for establishing nuclear power plants & modern technology”.
The primary source of energy in Sri Lanka is imported oil, coal, and hydropower. The government aims to produce 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
In June 2023, Russian nuclear giant Rosatom offered to build a nuclear power plant that may run two reactors and generate 300 megawatts of energy.
Reports suggest that India is the only South Asian country to have a nuclear power plant, built with Russian collaboration, while Bangladesh and Pakistan are in the process of setting them up.
Rosatom is a Russian state-owned corporation specializing in nuclear energy, nuclear non-energy goods and high-tech products, according to the minister.
An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts has concluded a seven-day safety review of Sri Lanka’s site selection process for its first nuclear power plant.
The South Asian nation is aiming to adopt nuclear energy to enhance low carbon power production, address climate change, and bolster energy security.
The Site and External Events Design Review Service (SEED) mission, conducted from May 30 to June 5, evaluated Sri Lanka’s adherence to IAEA guidance on site selection, including exclusion and screening criteria.
The country has identified six candidate sites from three regions following the completion of its site survey stage. The ongoing phase involves evaluation, comparison, and ranking of these sites.
Hosted by the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board (SLAEB) and under the purview of the Ministry of Power and Energy, the SEED mission was requested by the Government of Sri Lanka.
The expert team, consisting of members from Canada, Pakistan, Türkiye, and an IAEA staff member, reviewed the site survey report, the siting process, criteria, data collection, and application of the management system for siting activities.
They also visited and observed a candidate site in Pulmoddai, near the Trincomalee region.“Sri Lanka is comprehensively screening site-specific external hazards in the site selection process, while following the IAEA safety standards and adopting best practices,” stated mission team leader Ayhan Altinyollar, an IAEA Nuclear Safety Officer.
The team provided recommendations to optimize the site evaluation process to select the most favorable site
The team also commended SLAEB for conducting collaborative siting studies in an open and transparent manner with stakeholder organizations such as the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, Central Environmental Authority, and the Department of Geology of University of Peradeniya.
“Sri Lanka has identified nuclear as a clean and green energy source to fulfill future electricity demand. In March 2024, the Cabinet of Ministers committed to the country’s nuclear power planning programme.
Interpretation and application of IAEA safety standards within the context of site selection is crucial for a strong nuclear power programme in Sri Lanka,” said Professor Rexy Denzil Rosa, Chairman of SLAEB.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee indicates steadiness against the US Dollar today (10) in comparison to last week, as per official exchange rates released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
Accordingly, the buying price of the US Dollar is Rs. 297.93, and the selling price, Rs. 307.52.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): The strike initiated by the Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union, which lasted for four days, has been terminated following deliberations with the Minister of Transport.
This industrial action resulted in the cancellation of approximately twenty office trains this morning, commencing on Thursday.
The Union’s decision to engage in the strike was motivated by various demands, notably the resolution of delays pertaining to the promotion of second-class locomotive drivers.
Previously, it was reported that at least 20 commuter train services were suspended today as a result of the strike initiated by the Sri Lanka Railway Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union.
June 10, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has entered into new space race of navigating deep space in partnership with China’s Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL) to leverage diverse expertise and resources, fostering a more inclusive approach to space exploration.
This collaboration between Supreme Deep Space (Pvt) Ltd. And China’s DSEL is expected to bring mutual benefits, including technological advancements and enhanced scientific research capabilities for all parties’ involved, Sri Lankan company announced.
Newly established Supreme Deep Space (Pvt) Ltd.’ is now set to play a pivotal role in advancing lunar and Mars missions as the nation steps into the realm of deep space exploration.
In the wake of China’s highly successful Chang’e 6 lunar mission and the visit of Professor Wu Weiren, Chief Designer of China’s Lunar Exploration Program, to Sri Lanka paved the way towards launching this initiative.
This partnership not only places Sri Lanka on the global space exploration map but also allows the nation to contribute significantly to groundbreaking scientific endeavors, it added.
The timing of this partnership is particularly noteworthy given the current global landscape of space exploration.
The United States’ Artemis program is set to compete with China’s lunar ambitions, aiming to land astronauts on the Moon by 2026 and establish a sustainable presence there.
Both nations are seeking international collaborators, and Sri Lanka’s cooperation with China may suggest a strategic alignment, although the primary focus remains on the scientific and technological advancements of this partnership.
These two Sri Lankan and Chinese entities have outlined several areas of collaboration to advance space exploration and technology. This partnership promises to leverage Sri Lanka’s unique expertise and China’s advanced capabilities in various research initiatives.
It is poised to inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers in Sri Lanka, fostering a culture of innovation and exploration.
Supreme Deep Space will create a comprehensive database to catalog local expertise relevant to space missions.
This database will include scientists, engineers, and researchers with specialized knowledge in areas such as astrophysics, materials science, and space mission logistics.
This initiative aims to streamline collaboration and ensure that the best minds in Sri Lanka are contributing to global space missions.
Another key area of cooperation is joint research on 3D printing technologies for construction. This research will focus on developing methods for building structures on the Moon using lunar regolith, which could significantly reduce the cost and complexity of establishing lunar bases.
By combining DSEL’s advanced 3D printing technologies with Sri Lankan innovations, the partnership seeks to pioneer new techniques for off-Earth construction.
This new venture will involve in joint research on breaking down H2O to generate oxygen. With the potential discovery of water ice at the Moon’s poles, this research could provide critical life support resources for future lunar missions.
The project will explore efficient methods to electrolyze water, harnessing solar power to produce oxygen and hydrogen, essential for sustaining human presence on the Moon.
The partnership also plans to investigate the feasibility of a space elevator using graphene, a material known for its incredible strength and conductivity. Joint research will focus on developing graphene production techniques and testing its application in space elevator technology.
Supreme Deep Space and DSEL will conduct joint research on the lower gravity impact scenario, taking advantage of Sri Lanka’s Hikkaduwa region.
The collaboration extends to Tracking, Telemetry, and Command (TT&C) services, ground segment support, and IT resource sharing. Supreme Deep Space will provide critical infrastructure for mission monitoring and control, leveraging Sri Lanka’s strategic geographic position.
.By establishing state-of-the-art facilities equipped with advanced technologies, the company will support DSEL’s missions in real-time. This includes tracking spacecraft, analyzing mission data, and coordinating with international space agencies to ensure the success of collaborative space endeavors.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe attends Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, along with leaders from neighboring countries: His arrival was warmly received earlier that day at the airport, and the event featured a captivating Indian cultural performance: Modi’s victory in the recent Indian general election was highlighted, and Wickremesinghe’s visit garnered significant media attention in India.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa pledges to implement the 13th Amendment to the Constitution under a Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) administration: emphasises his commitment to implementing the amendment, which has been a recurring topic in Sri Lankan politics, unlike other politicians who have hesitated: reiterates his stance to enact the 13th Amendment nationwide, ensuring the rights of Sri Lankan citizens.
Retired Police investigators Ravi Seneviratne and Shani Abeysekara publicly endorse the National Peoples Power (NPP) party led by MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake: praise praised Dissanayake as a potential future President and voice concerns about current law enforcement issues in Sri Lanka, while expressing confidence in the NPP’s development agenda: Both Seneviratne and Abeysekara are noted for handling controversial cases and faced challenges under former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
Minister Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena stresses the importance of preserving the state-owned Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) during an induction programme at Temple Trees: emphasises its role in the economy and daily commuting, announcing a fixed promotion system to ensure stability: Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardena echoes this sentiment, marking a historic development in SLTB’s 67-year history.
A strike initiated by the Sri Lanka Railway Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union leads to the suspension of over 20 commuter train services today, with more than 50 services cancelled yesterday: The strike, now in its fourth day, is due to grievances including promotion delays and recruitment issues: Only drivers from two out of five depots have joined the strike, affecting power set train operations: The union has warned of further escalation if their demands are not met.
USAID is aiding Sri Lanka’s investment climate by improving access to commercial alternative dispute resolution (ADR): train and accredit 23 international commercial mediators, doubling Sri Lanka’s qualified mediators: These mediators, trained by the Singapore International Mediation Centre, will conduct around 100 commercial mediations by October 2026: Commercial mediation offers a faster, cost-effective resolution, preserving business relationships and supporting international trade: US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Doug Sonnek emphasises the US commitment to fostering a favourable investment climate in Sri Lanka through such partnerships: USAID’s Efficient and Effective Justice (EEJ) project also supports ADR training and pilot programs for judicial mediation, aiming to enhance the overall efficacy of Sri Lanka’s judicial process..
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector sees a slowdown in May, with revenue dropping to $154 mn from April’s $225.7 mn: Despite challenges like the 2019 Easter attacks and pandemic-related restrictions, the industry has shown improvement compared to last year: However, global travel advisories and seasonal fluctuations continue to impact recovery efforts: Despite these challenges, tourism inflows over the past five months almost reached pre-pandemic levels, with close to 900,000 visitors: Tourist arrivals for June have seen a dip, with India being the main source of visitors, followed by the UK, China, and Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka plans to invite EOIs for establishing a nuclear power plant as part of its long-term energy plans: Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekara announced the intention to include nuclear energy in future generation plans, aiming to reduce reliance on imported oil, coal, and hydropower: Russia’s Rosatom offered to build a plant with two reactors generating 300 megawatts of energy: An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safety review evaluated Sri Lanka’s site selection process, with six candidate sites identified: The review team provided recommendations to optimise site evaluation, emphasising adherence to IAEA safety standards: Sri Lanka sees nuclear energy as a low-carbon option to address climate change and bolster energy security, committing to nuclear power planning.
Sri Lanka partners with China’s Deep Space Exploration Lab (DSEL) to join the global space race: Supreme Deep Space (Pvt) Ltd., a newly established Sri Lankan company, collaborates with DSEL to advance lunar and Mars missions: This partnership follows China’s successful Chang’e 6 lunar mission and aims to contribute to groundbreaking scientific endeavours: Sri Lanka’s cooperation with China may align with strategic interests amidst the US-China space competition: The collaboration focuses on various research initiatives, including cataloguing local expertise, 3D printing for lunar construction, water electrolysis for oxygen generation, and graphene-based space elevator technology: Supreme Deep Space will provide infrastructure for mission monitoring and control, supporting DSEL’s missions in real-time.
Sri Lanka’s Nuwan Thushara reflects on lessons learned from IPL and T-20 World Cup matches, emphasising team success over personal achievements: highlights differences in pitch conditions between the IPL and T-20 World Cup, noting challenges for bowlers and batsmen: Sri Lanka’s team manager, Mahinda Halangoda, attributes their defeat to batting shortcomings and stresses the need for players to adapt to pitch conditions: Despite attempts to prepare, challenges with practice facilities hindered their training: Cricket experts urge players to take responsibility for performance in the T-20 format, emphasising the importance of adaptation and learning from mistakes.
