By: Isuru Parakrama

December 08, Colombo (LNW): The High Commission of India in Colombo has extended critical relief to those affected by the recent devastating floods in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province.

Responding swiftly to the displacement and suffering caused by the severe flooding, the Indian government has ensured that much-needed aid reaches the affected communities in a timely manner.

The distribution of aid was led by Shri Sai Murali, the Consul General of India in Jaffna, in collaboration with MP Kader Masthan.

The relief was provided to families in several flood-hit areas, including Pesalai and Vellankulam in Mannar District, as well as Thunukkai and Manthai East in Mullaitivu District.

Around 2,100 families received essential supplies to help them cope with the aftermath of the disaster.

The relief packages included mats and blankets, offering comfort and some respite to the affected families during a difficult period.

These items were part of a broader relief effort aimed at addressing the immediate needs of those who have lost their homes and belongings.

The Indian High Commission in Colombo expressed that this gesture of assistance was in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighborhood First” policy, which underscores India’s commitment to supporting its neighbours during times of crisis.

The High Commission further emphasised that India is determined to stand by Sri Lanka, providing timely and effective relief to ensure the well-being of those impacted by the floods.

Benefiting 2100+ families, this immediate support underscores 🇮🇳’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Sri Lanka.

Together, we stand stronger through challenges. #IndiaSriLanka #NeighbourhoodFirst @MEAIndia pic.twitter.com/rrQkypydXh

— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) December 8, 2024

By: Isuru Parakrama

December 08, Colombo (LNW): Fishermen associations in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, have announced a two-day strike, from Saturday (08) to Sunday (08) in protest over the recent arrest of 14 fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy on charges of poaching.

The strike is part of a much bigger call to the Indian government to take immediate action for the release of the detained men.

At a gathering of major fishermen associations on Friday, a resolution was passed urging the community to suspend all fishing activities for the duration of the protest.

The decision comes in response to growing frustration within the community, as they face increasing difficulties and uncertainty about their livelihoods.

Fishermen leader Sesu Raja, speaking to The Hindu, expressed his concerns about the lack of government intervention and the ongoing hardships faced by the fishing community.

“For months, Union Ministers in New Delhi assured us that we should be patient, citing the elections in Sri Lanka. Now that the elections are over and a new President and Prime Minister are in power, the Union government has failed to take any decisive action,” Raja said.

He stressed that the future of Tamil Nadu’s fishermen appears increasingly bleak without substantial governmental support.

Raja pointed out that the Tamil Nadu fishermen community has been engaged in traditional fishing in the Palk Bay for decades, and their troubles began only after the onset of the civil war in Sri Lanka, which had a significant impact on their activities.

Despite the end of the conflict, the problems faced by these fishermen seem to persist.

Raja questioned why the Indian government has not initiated a high-level dialogue with Sri Lankan authorities, a promise made by the late External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during a visit to the region almost a decade ago.

He also criticised the Union government for praising the fishing industry’s rising exports while neglecting the issues that local fishermen face.

“We cannot tolerate this double standard. If the government truly values the fishing sector, it must address the ongoing challenges that are threatening our livelihood and safety,” he asserted.

During the meeting, the fishermen associations passed three resolutions:

• The first called for the immediate release of the 14 fishermen and their trawlers, which had been seized by the Sri Lankan Navy.
• The second resolution demanded that the Sri Lankan courts stop imposing long prison sentences under the pretext of ‘repeat offences’ on fishermen.
• The third resolution urged the Tamil Nadu State government to provide compensation to the families of those detained in Sri Lanka.

*With inputs from The Hindu

December 08, Colombo (LNW): Increased demand and the lack of new, low-cost power generation plants in recent years have largely contributed to the government’s inability to reduce electricity tariffs for the next six months, Director General of the Power Sector Reforms Secretariat Pubudu Niroshan disclosed.

Upon query, Niroshan addressed concerns regarding the country’s energy situation, revealing that the electricity demand for the upcoming year is expected to rise by one billion units.

This surge in demand, combined with the failure to construct affordable power plants over the past five years, has created a situation where the additional units needed will primarily come from high-cost energy sources.

Niroshan elaborated that the estimated electricity requirement for 2025 is forecasted to reach 17.5 billion units. However, Sri Lanka’s hydro and coal power capacities have already been maximised, contributing 12 billion units, leaving a shortfall of 5.5 billion units.

To meet this gap, the country will need to rely on a combination of renewable energy sources and fuel oil.

He highlighted that approximately three billion units of this shortfall will be sourced from fuel oil, which is significantly more expensive than hydro or coal power.

This is one of the main drivers behind the current electricity tariff structure, as two-thirds of the electricity bill consists of generation costs, according to Niroshan.

In response to these challenges, Niroshan emphasised the need for urgent action to diversify the energy mix. He suggested that accelerating the development of competitive renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar power, should be prioritised.

Additionally, he proposed the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a transitional fuel to reduce dependency on more expensive fuel oil.

On the subject of the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) financial situation, Niroshan revealed that by the end of August 2024, the CEB had used Rs. 112 billion to cover loan repayments and other payables.

With only Rs. 41 billion remaining to cover the revenue shortfall for the year, the government has been left with no choice but to pass on the burden to consumers through the recent tariff adjustments.

December 08, Colombo (LNW): The Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) has strongly condemned a recent statement made by Agriculture Minister K.D. Lal Kantha, which suggested that farmers have the freedom to determine how to deal with animals damaging their crops.

Legal advisor to the CEJ Ravindranath Dabare voiced his concerns, describing the government’s stance as unacceptable and legally flawed.

In his remarks made in Parliament on December 05, Minister Lal Kantha asserted that there are no legal restrictions on farmers when it comes to dealing with animals that cause harm to their crops.

His comments sparked immediate protests from various environmental groups, who expressed their alarm at the potential consequences of such a statement.

Dabare pointed out significant flaws in the Minister’s argument, emphasising the potential legal ramifications of encouraging such actions.

“When a responsible Minister makes such statements, it gives the impression that people have permission to kill any animal that causes damage to their crops,” Dabare said.

He stressed that this could lead to a widespread misunderstanding of the laws in place to protect wildlife in Sri Lanka.

The legal advisor specifically drew attention to the protection afforded to certain animals, notably elephants, under Sri Lanka’s Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. According to the 12th clause of the ordinance, elephants are granted special legal protection, and killing one, even in response to crop damage, is a criminal offence.

Similarly, peacocks are also protected under the same legislation, and it is illegal to harm or kill them.

Dabare warned that the Minister’s comments could mislead farmers into believing they have the legal right to harm or kill these species.

“Statements made without a full understanding of the relevant laws can lead to dangerous misunderstandings, with people thinking they have the right to kill protected animals,” Dabare emphasised.

He called on the government to take a more responsible approach to addressing the issue of crop damage caused by animals, urging the exploration of alternative solutions that do not involve harm to wildlife.

Despite the legal protections in place, many farmers have raised concerns about the significant damage caused by animals to their crops. Reports suggest that paddy fields have been especially affected, with animals such as parrots, peacocks, and toque macaques being identified as major culprits behind extensive crop losses.

Farmers have expressed frustration over the lack of effective measures to prevent such damage, calling for immediate action from the government to protect their livelihoods.

Dabare concluded by advocating for more sustainable and humane solutions to address the conflict between agricultural production and wildlife conservation, stressing that the government must take a proactive role in providing guidance and support to farmers, rather than resorting to statements that may lead to harm being inflicted on vulnerable species.

December 08, Colombo (LNW): The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has scheduled an intensive round of inspections today (08) at rice mills located in the Polonnaruwa region.

The inspections aim to regulate the rice industry and ensure compliance with the newly established price controls.

A spokesperson for the CAA confirmed that officials would be gathering detailed reports on the daily rice production figures, current stock levels, and the quantities of rice being supplied to the market.

These spot-checks are aimed at verifying whether rice mill owners are adhering to the guidelines set out by the government and ensuring that rice distribution is transparent and accurate.

The move follows recent directives from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who has instructed the CAA to extend these inspection efforts to all rice mills nationwide.

The spot-check activity will collect essential data regarding rice production, stock, and distribution, with the goal of curbing any potential price manipulations or shortages in the market.

The President has taken steps to address concerns over the cost of rice, which has been a point of contention among consumers. Following a productive discussion with rice traders yesterday (07), the President announced the introduction of new maximum retail and wholesale price limits for various rice varieties.

The move is aimed at stabilising rice prices and ensuring affordability for consumers during the festive season.

To further enforce these price controls, the President also directed that CAA officers would be stationed at rice mills starting today, tasked with closely monitoring operations and ensuring strict adherence to the newly set price caps.

Any mill owners failing to comply or found in violation of the regulations will face legal consequences as part of the government’s commitment to protecting consumers from unfair pricing practices.

December 08, Colombo (LNW): In anticipation of the busy festive season, the Public Health Inspectors’ Union (PHIU) has rolled out an extensive inspection programme aimed at ensuring the safety and hygiene of food and beverages sold in high-traffic areas.

The initiative, which comes as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public health, will see inspectors conducting thorough checks on food vendors and establishments across the country.

Upul Rohana, president of the PHIU, revealed that approximately 1,750 Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) have been mobilised to carry out this crucial task.

The inspection programme will cover a wide range of locations, including popular shopping districts, markets, and other busy areas where people are likely to gather during the festive period.

In addition to monitoring food safety in such high-traffic locations, the union has highlighted that inspections will also extend to the raw materials used in food preparation.

This measure aims to ensure that the ingredients used in festive treats meet health and safety standards, helping to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses during the celebrations.

Since the start of December, PHIs have already carried out over 150 surprise raids across the country. These inspections have focused on identifying health and safety violations, with a particular emphasis on food hygiene, sanitation, and the proper storage of ingredients.

Rohana emphasised the importance of these inspections, noting that the festive season often sees a surge in food-related activities, making it even more critical to monitor vendors and food outlets to ensure they adhere to strict health standards.

The PHIU president reassured the public that the inspections are being carried out diligently, with the goal of providing peace of mind to consumers and promoting food safety during one of the most popular times of the year.

By: Isuru Parakrama

December 08, Colombo (LNW): The Low-Pressure Area formed over southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further and move west-northwestwards during next 24 hours, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (08).

It is likely to reach over southwest Bay of Bengal off Sri Lanka – Tamil Nadu coasts around December 11, and under its influence, showery conditions are expected to enhance in the Northern and Eastern provinces from December 10.

The Northeast monsoon condition also expected to establishing gradually over the island along with above condition.

Several spells of showers will occur in Northern and Eastern provinces.

Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in Western, and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts during the evening or night.

Fairly heavy showers about 75mm are likely at some places in Western, and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, and Matara districts.

Misty conditions can be expected in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western and North-western provinces during the morning.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Marine Weather:

1. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has set new maximum prices for various rice types following a meeting with rice traders: Nadu rice will be sold at Rs. 225 wholesale and Rs. 230 retail per kilo: The President instructed the Consumer Affairs Authority to monitor compliance and enforce regulations: He also emphasised affordable rice access, urging traders to cooperate with the government.
   
2. A US delegation led by Assistant Secretary Donald Lu met with Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa in Colombo: The talks, also attended by Deputy Treasury Secretary Robert Kaproth and US Ambassador Julie Chung, covered key social, economic, and political issues facing Sri Lanka: The meeting included representatives from USAID and prominent members of Sri Lanka’s opposition parties.
   
3. The government will introduce new regulations prohibiting the use of minors under 12 in advertising starting January 1, 2025: Deputy Minister of Mass Media Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni announced this in Parliament, stating that a Gazette notification is being prepared to formalise the prohibition: The move aims to protect children from exploitation in the advertising industry.
   
4. Public Administration Minister Prof. Chandana Abeyratne says the government has no plans to lay off public sector employees but will focus on improving productivity: He emphasised that downsizing could trigger a crisis, but productivity would be considered in future recruitment: Senior Presidential Advisor Duminda Hulangamuwa warned of the need to reduce the public sector workforce due to financial constraints, as the sector costs Rs. 1,700 billion annually.
   
5. Sri Lanka Customs has warned the public against falling victim to automobile smugglers as vehicle imports remain banned: Smugglers are attempting to clear dismantled luxury cars through various methods: Customs recently seized a reconditioned Toyota Prius and has previously confiscated a Mercedes Benz, BMW, and several hybrid cars: Authorities caution that buying smuggled cars at lower prices can result in legal consequences.
   
6. Accidents involving tourists engaging in unsafe behaviour on upcountry trains are increasing, prompting calls for stricter safety measures: Tourists often lean out of doors, hold footboard handles, or take selfies, unaware of the dangers: Recently, an Iranian woman sustained critical head injuries after striking a tunnel while taking a selfie, and other incidents have led to severe injuries and fatalities: The Railway Department urges tourists to avoid unsafe behaviour during their stay in Sri Lanka.
   
7. Strong opposition mounts against the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) proposal to maintain current electricity tariffs for the next six months: Critics argue that the public should benefit from increased hydroelectric power generation due to heavy rainfall: Despite recent tariff reductions, the CEB’s proposal suggests minimal adjustments, sparking public discontent: The Public Utilities Commission (PUCSL) will announce its decision by January.
   
8. Former State Minister Lohan Ratwatte who was arrested for causing a road accident while driving under the influence of alcohol was remanded till December 09: The accident occurred near Kollupitiya Junction, and investigations confirmed his intoxication: Ratwatte had been released on bail just days earlier in a separate case involving an illegally imported luxury car.
   
9. Lankeshwara Mithrapala, owner of ‘New Rathna’ Rice Mill, has invited Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe to inspect his rice production facilities following accusations in Parliament about large-scale rice millers stockpiling: Mithrapala defended his operations, stating that his company maintains stocks to ensure a consistent supply until the next harvest: He emphasised that he manages stocks to sustain production and market supply until February 1.
   
10. Kyle Verreynne’s aggressive 100 helped South Africa reach 358, but Sri Lanka fought back strongly on day two: Pathum Nissanka’s 89 and a solid 109-run partnership with Dinesh Chandimal put Sri Lanka in a strong position, with Angelo Mathews (40) and Kamindu Mendis (30) unbeaten at stumps: Sri Lanka is well-placed to take the lead, putting pressure on a struggling South African attack.