A special programme has been launched to remove garbage and debris in Biyagama following the recent floods.

Minister Anura Karunathilaka, MP Ashoka Ranwala, Biyagama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lal Kumarapeli, and Lion Brewery spearheaded the effort.

Pradeshiya Sabha members, health officers, and environmental officials supported the operation.

The Biyagama area, heavily impacted by flooding, has now been cleared of all debris, with restoration completed by the evening of 07 December, allowing residents to safely return to their homes.

Jaffna High Court yesterday (10) ordered former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to present evidence of alleged threats to his life, after he failed to appear in court for the hearing of the case concerning the abduction of brothers Lalith Kumar Veeraraju and Kugan Muruganandan 14 years ago. The court set 06 February, 2026, as the date for him to submit details regarding these threats.

The case, which marks over a decade of legal proceedings into enforced disappearances in Jaffna, has drawn widespread attention as one of the few ongoing trials related to abductions during Sri Lanka’s conflict period.

Speaking to the media outside the court, Pubudu Jayagoda, Education Secretary of the Frontline Socialist Party, said the abduction had occurred while the victims were preparing for a Human Rights Day events in a high-security zone.

Qatar has underscored its commitment to continuing its humanitarian role and supporting its partners in Sri Lanka to ensure an effective and sustainable response to communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.

The assurance was given when Minister of State for International Cooperation, Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, met the Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando.

Their discussion, during the meeting, focused on advancing cooperation between the two countries, addressing the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah and exploring possible areas of support from the State of Qatar, including humanitarian aid, early recovery assistance, rehabilitation of critical infrastructure and livelihood protection programmes.

State Minister Al Misnad underscored Qatar’s commitment to continuing its humanitarian role and supporting its partners in Sri Lanka, as well as working with them to identify urgent intervention priorities to ensure an effective and sustainable response.

Meanwhile, Minister Fernando has expressed Sri Lanka’s gratitude to Qatar for its solidarity and enduring readiness to support Sri Lankan citizens in times of crises and natural disasters.