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SLPA Seeks Investors for Development of Talaimannar Pier as Regional Port

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SLPA Seeks Investors for Development of Talaimannar Pier as Regional Port

By: Staff Writer

September 23, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), a state-run entity, has invited expressions of interest (EOIs) to develop the Talaimannar North Pier in the Port of Mannar.

The project is planned on a build, operate, and transfer (BOT) model. This initiative aligns with India’s Adani Group’s plans to establish wind power projects in the Mannar and Northern Pooneryn areas, with a combined capacity of nearly 500 MW. Mannar’s project location spans 250 acres in an environmentally sensitive zone, facing legal hurdles.

The SLPA aims to transform the Port of Mannar into a regional hub, primarily focusing on passenger and cargo services.

A passenger ferry already operates between Sri Lanka’s northern region and southern India. Last November, the Sri Lankan government brought the Mannar port under the Sri Lanka Ports Authority Act, setting the stage for new ferry services between Mannar and India.

Mannar will join Sri Lanka’s list of major ports, which currently includes Colombo, Hambantota, Trincomalee, Galle, Kankesanthurai (KKS), and Oluvil.

According to the SLPA, this call for EOIs marks the initial phase of selecting an investor for the Talaimannar North Pier development. Documents for the EOI will be available from September 18 to October 28, with a pre-EOI meeting scheduled for October 2. The final date for submitting EOIs is October 30.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation is planning to re-construct the Talaimannar pier to facilitate passenger vessels from Rameswaram, India.

The pier was destroyed and had been abandoned to deteriorate during the conflict era in the north., the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) has been given the task to re-construct the pier at an estimated cost of Rs.1.8 billion.

Parallel to the re-construction of the pier, about 10 acres of government-owned land bordering the port will be acquired for port infrastructure development activities.

Under these new developments, a modern passenger terminal and warehouse facilities will be constructed. It has also been decided to call for RFPs for these investments to be carried out under PPP basis.

 In the past, a passenger ferry service existed between Talaimannar and Dhanushkodi. However, the Dhanushkodi port was completely destroyed due to cyclones.

At present, India has completed developments at the Rameswaram Port, and the Indian government has declared clearance to commence a passenger ferry service between Mannar and Rameswaram. 

Malayalam mega film starring Mohanlal and Mammootty to be shot in Sri Lanka

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Malayalam mega film starring Mohanlal and Mammootty to be shot in Sri Lanka

By: Staff Writer

September 23, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is set to become the backdrop for a high-profile Malayalam film featuring two of the industry’s biggest stars, Mammootty and Mohanlal.

The news broke after the makers of the film met former Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena recently at the Temple Trees (PM’s office in Colombo).

The Malayalam Film Producers Association (MFPA) President Anto Joseph, along with directors Mahesh Narayanan and C.V. Sarathy, briefed the PM on their plans.

When contacted, filmmaker Mahesh Narayanan did confirm the project to ETV Bharat featuring the superstars, however, he remained tight-lipped about any other details of the film.

The film will see Mammootty and Mohanlal share the screen for the first time after 20 years. The shooting will take place in Sri Lanka for 30 days, with additional filming scheduled in Kerala, Delhi, and London.

Former Prime Minister Gunawardena expressed gratitude for choosing Sri Lanka as a filming location, highlighting the project’s potential to boost foreign exchange earnings and promote tourism.

This film marks a significant moment for Sri Lanka, recalling past successes such as The Elephant Walk, Tarzan the Apeman, and Bridge on the River Kwai, which were filmed in the country and achieved international acclaim. The new project is expected to further enhance Sri Lanka’s reputation as a desirable filming destination.

Mammootty and Mohanlal, two of Malayalam cinema’s most iconic actors, have shared the screen in over 50 films throughout their illustrious careers. Their collaboration has consistently captivated audiences, showcasing their incredible star power and acting prowess.

Mammootty, renowned for his versatile roles, was last seen in the film Turbo, directed by Vysakh. On the other hand, Mohanlal is gearing up for his directorial debut with the much-anticipated film Barroz, which will also feature him in a significant role.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s Presidency: A New Era for Sri Lanka amid Economic and Social Challenges

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Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s Presidency: A New Era for Sri Lanka amid Economic and Social Challenges

By: Staff Writer

September 23, Colombo (LNW): Anura Kumara Dissanayake was sworn in as the new President of Sri Lanka at a simple ceremony, signaling a shift in the nation’s political landscape. His election is seen as a “vote for change,” with his leftist and Marxist platform resonating with voters after the country’s economic crisis in 2022. Dissanayake won 5.6 million votes, or 42.3%, marking a significant improvement from his 2019 performance.

Sri Lanka faces a precarious economic situation, recovering slowly from a devastating crisis in 2022. Key fiscal challenges remain, such as deciding whether to adhere to the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), adjust fiscal policies, or renegotiate the IMF program.

The nation continues to grapple with austerity measures like tax hikes, wage freezes, and subsidy cuts, which have stabilized the economy but also hurt the most vulnerable. Economic recovery has been slow, with jobs being created but the cost-of-living crisis leaving lasting damage on low- and middle-income households.

Dissanayake’s presidency will confront significant challenges, particularly in reducing unemployment and boosting economic growth. Unemployment, especially among youth, remains high at 20.2% in 2023, compared to the national average of 5.4%. Sri Lanka’s skills gap, lack of infrastructure, and energy shortages hamper growth. To facilitate recovery, the country needs a $12 billion investment in infrastructure over the next decade.

Gender inequality is another pressing issue. Although Sri Lanka scores high in gender equality indices, women face barriers in education, healthcare, and employment. Gender roles, entrenched in patriarchal norms, restrict women’s participation in public and private spheres.

Women make up about half of the workforce but often find themselves in low-paying, informal jobs. These challenges are even more pronounced for women from marginalized communities, especially in rural areas. The Global Gender Gap Report ranked Sri Lanka 108th out of 146 countries, reflecting ongoing inequalities in economic participation.

To address these challenges, Dissanayake is expected to pursue comprehensive reforms. His strategy will focus on fiscal reforms to manage public debt, foster foreign investment in tourism, renewable energy, and technology, and create targeted youth employment programs.

He also aims to bridge gender disparities by promoting equal pay, anti-discrimination laws, and gender-sensitive hiring practices. Key policies include improving education and vocational training for women and implementing family-friendly workplace policies like parental leave and childcare.

Dissanayake’s vision includes enhancing women’s political participation, empowering them economically through microfinance, and increasing their representation in governance. His presidency is expected to focus on long-term solutions to Sri Lanka’s deep-seated economic issues while promoting gender equality and sustainable development.

By prioritizing internal strategies alongside international cooperation, Dissanayake’s administration can help rebuild a more stable and inclusive Sri Lanka.

Ranil’s contribution will only be seen later

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Ranil’s contribution will only be seen later

By: Adolf

September 23, Colombo (LNW): This piece emphasizes the often-overlooked achievements of President Ranil Wickremesinghe despite his political unpopularity and perceived shortcomings.

It argues that while his political deftness may have been lacking and his image tarnished by unresolved scandals, his economic management laid a strong foundation for the country, one that future administrations, such as the NPP (National People’s Power), will benefit from.

Key contributions attributed to Ranil include:

– Rebuilding foreign reserves from a dire situation to USD 6 billion.
– Stabilizing and strengthening the Sri Lankan Rupee.
– Reducing interest rates significantly, helping businesses and households.
– Successfully restructuring USD 17.5 billion of external debt, giving the country breathing space until 2028.
– Rejuvenating key economic sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and exports, alongside consistent GDP growth.
– Increasing government revenue and revamping social safety nets.

The analysis points out that Ranil’s economic work, while essential, was overshadowed by his political mishandlings, such as the visa scandal, conflicts with the judiciary, and his handling of the Easter Sunday investigations.

These factors may have contributed to his unpopularity, but the author suggests that his contributions to economic stabilization will be recognized, albeit privately, by future administrations.

In essence, it paints a picture of a leader who performed well on the economic front but was hindered by political missteps, which ultimately cost him wider public approval. Sri Lankan electorate is very short sighted and swayed by emotions.

Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi to fill MP seat vacant by AKD’s election as President

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Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi to fill MP seat vacant by AKD’s election as President

September 23, Colombo (LNW): Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi will be appointed as a Member of Parliament to fill the vacancy left by Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s election the President of Sri Lanka, Commissioner General of Elections Saman Sri Ratnayake confirmed.

Over 3.5 mn Sri Lankans failed to vote in 2024 Presidential Polls: EC

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Over 3.5 mn Sri Lankans failed to vote in 2024 Presidential Polls: EC

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 23, Colombo (LNW): The Commissioner General of Elections, Saman Sri Ratnayake, revealed that over 3.5 million eligible voters did not participate in Sri Lanka’s 2024 Presidential Election, marking a significant proportion of the electorate.

Speaking during the “Big Focus” current affairs programme today (23), Ratnayake stated that this represents 21.54 per cent of the eligible voting population.

Out of the 17,140,354 registered voters, only 13,619,916 cast their ballots, amounting to a turnout of 79.46 per cent.

This leaves 3,520,438 citizens who chose not to vote. Furthermore, Ratnayake noted that approximately 300,300 votes, representing 2.2 per cent of the total cast, were deemed invalid and subsequently rejected.

Reflecting on voter turnout, Ratnayake remarked, “Typically, voter participation in presidential elections exceeds 80 per cent. However, this time, fewer citizens exercised their voting rights. This issue requires attention not only from the Election Commission but also from political parties, which play a crucial role in mobilising voters.”

He further emphasised the necessity for political parties to develop initiatives aimed at encouraging greater voter engagement, stating that while the Election Commission provides the necessary infrastructure, it is up to the political leadership to ensure voters are motivated to participate in the democratic process.

The lower turnout has raised questions about the political climate and voter sentiment in the country, especially in a year that has seen major shifts in Sri Lanka’s political landscape.

New Secretary to President appointed

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New Secretary to President appointed

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 23, Colombo (LNW): Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake has been appointed as the new Secretary to the President, the Department of Government Information confirmed.

The appointment has been made by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat.

Person representing minorities to be appointed as next PM?

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Person representing minorities to be appointed as next PM?

September 23, Colombo (LNW): Following the resignation of Dinesh Gunawardena from his position as the Prime Minister, the dissolution of the Cabinet of Ministers will become inevitable, and political sources indicate that a person representing the minority community is to be appointed as the next Prime Minister.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs may also be under his purview, according to political sources.


Dialog Axiata steps in to assist Sri Lanka’s Fishing Community with Sayuru Mobile App

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Dialog Axiata steps in to assist Sri Lanka’s Fishing Community with Sayuru Mobile App

By: Staff Writer

September 23, Colombo (LNW): Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s leading connectivity provider, has launched the Sayuru mobile app to support the country’s fishing communities.

Available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, the app is specifically designed for day-boat fishermen and offers critical real-time weather updates and other essential services. Developed in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Department of Meteorology, the app builds on the success of the original SMS and voice-based Sayuru service introduced in 2020.

The app offers features such as “Today’s Weather,” “Mark My Route,” “Saved Locations,” “Department Services,” “Awareness Programmes,” a digital compass, SOS alerts, and a fuel calculator.

While the Sayuru SMS and voice service remains free, the app provides a 90-day free trial for its advanced features, after which a daily subscription fee of Rs. 2 + tax applies. The app can be downloaded for free from the Google Play Store, and Dialog customers benefit from data-free access.

This initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 1, 9, and 13, focusing on reducing poverty, promoting sustainable industry and infrastructure, and combating climate change.

It has already received recognition, including the NBQSA Award for Inclusion and Community in 2023. Since its inception, the Sayuru voice and SMS service has gained over 100,000 active users, issued 2.1 million weather alerts via SMS, and facilitated an average of 800,000 emergency calls annually.

Douglas Devananda, former Minister of Fisheries, commended Dialog Axiata’s efforts, stating that the Sayuru app is a timely solution that enhances the safety and livelihoods of Sri Lanka’s fishermen.

Dialog’s Head of Sustainability, Asanga Priyadharshana, emphasized the company’s commitment to using technology to support marginalized communities and help mitigate the risks faced by day-boat fishermen due to unpredictable weather conditions.

“In an era when information about the lives and safety of fishing boats on one-day journeys was inaccessible, Dialog Axiata PLC introduced the Sayuru 828 Service,”

The launch of the Sayuru mobile app is both timely and vital, and we extend our gratitude to Dialog for implementing solutions that safeguard the lives and livelihoods of more than 100,000 Sri Lankan fishermen.”

Asanga Priyadharshana, Head of Sustainability and Group Chief Risk and Compliance Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC, added, “We are proud to introduce the Sayuru Mobile App, which underscores our commitment to using technology to uplift and empower Sri Lanka’s fishing communities.

This app is a valuable extension of our ongoing efforts to support marginalized communities, and we believe it will significantly mitigate the risks posed by unpredictable weather conditions to day-boat fishermen’s livelihoods.”

Global leaders congratulate AKD on Sri Lankan Presidential victory

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Global leaders congratulate AKD on Sri Lankan Presidential victory

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 23, Colombo (LNW): World leaders have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Anura Kumara Dissanayake on his recent election as President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

The newly elected leader, who secured a significant victory in the country’s presidential election, has received a flurry of congratulatory messages, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s global ties.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu took to X to offer his best wishes, acknowledging the strong historical relationship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

In his message, Muizzu expressed eagerness to further strengthen the bonds between the two neighbouring nations. “As close neighbours, I am eager to work with you to further strengthen the historic friendship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Wishing you immense success in your new role,” he said.

Japan’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Mizukoshi Hideaki, also issued a formal statement, representing the Japanese people in extending warm congratulations to Dissanayake. Highlighting the significance of this moment for Sri Lanka, Hideaki noted the country’s ongoing recovery from economic challenges and expressed optimism about continued collaboration between the two nations.

“This marks a significant moment in Sri Lanka’s journey as the country continues to recover from its economic challenges. I sincerely wish your excellency great success in your endeavour to lead the country and to achieve sound and sustainable development while further enhancing collaboration with the international community,” the Ambassador remarked.

Ambassador Hideaki emphasised the enduring friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka, coupled with the President-elect’s personal affinity for Japan. He reiterated Japan’s readiness to assist Sri Lanka in fostering peace and prosperity.

Additionally, the United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, took to social media to commend both Dissanayake and the Sri Lankan people for successfully and peacefully exercising their democratic rights. “We value the strong U.S.-Sri Lanka partnership and stand ready to work together on shared priorities,” she wrote on X, signalling the United States’ continued engagement with the island nation.

Similarly, the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick, also shared his congratulations via X, celebrating the deep ties between the UK and Sri Lanka. Patrick expressed optimism about future collaborations, particularly given the long-standing relationship between the two nations, marked by robust people-to-people connections, economic ties, and shared values.

“Congratulations to President-elect Anura Dissanayake on his victory. Sri Lanka and the UK share a long-standing friendship… I look forward to working with the President and his government,” he stated.

As Dissanayake prepares to assume office, the international community’s recognition and warm messages of support reflect a readiness to deepen diplomatic and economic partnerships, ensuring Sri Lanka’s continued progress on the global stage.

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