News
Issues arising from the Nilwala Salinity Barrier addressed
A series of short-term measures have been proposed to address the irrigation challenges caused by the Nilwala River Salinity Barrier until a long-term solution is implemented.
During a recent discussion chaired by the Secretary to the Presidential Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, officials from all relevant ministries and institutions agreed to promptly implement these proposals.
As part of these measures, the sand piled along the riverbanks, which was deposited during the construction of the salinity barrier, will be removed to ensure smooth water flow during floods. The height of the sheet pile barriers on both sides of the salinity barrier will be reduced to facilitate water drainage. Accumulated sand in the riverbed will be cleared, while alternative canal pathways will be cleaned and obstructions removed to improve water flow. Additionally, water pumping stations used to drain excess water from paddy fields will be properly maintained.
To address the drainage issues affecting the homes, lands and access roads of residents of Circle Road, Hittatiya centre, Matara during heavy rains, a few short-term solutions have been proposed. A new drainage system will be developed along Dahanayake Road to divert water from Hittatiya First Milepost to Nupe Ela, replacing the current connection to the canal system along Circle Road. The existing drainage system will be upgraded to increase its capacity.
The drainage capacity along Circle Road will be improved and telecommunication cables currently obstructing water flow in the drainage system will be relocated to a more suitable location. The drainage system from the central section of Circle Road through Handayawatta and along Padiliyawatta Road to Nupe Ela will be expanded, with blockages removed to enhance water flow. Upon obtaining the final land survey map from the local authorities, a decision will be made regarding the existence of a natural canal in the affected area.
Meanwhile, the ongoing study by the University of Peradeniya to identify long-term solutions for the issues arising from the Nilwala Salinity Barrier will be reassessed and reviewed.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake departed for Vietnam.
The visit is taking place at the invitation of the President of Vietnam from May 4 to 6, 2025.
During the visit, President Disanayake is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with both the President and the Prime Minister of Vietnam. He will also meet with the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and other senior officials.
On May 6, the President will attend the official opening ceremony of the United Nations Vesak Day celebrations in Ho Chi Minh City as the Chief guest and will also deliver the keynote address.
In addition, the visit is expected to include the signing of several bilateral agreements and engagement with the Vietnamese business community to further enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, along with a delegation of senior government officials, is accompanying the President on this important visit.
[PMD]
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The Heat index is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Monaragala and Hambantota districts.
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology at 3.30 p.m. 03 May 2025, valid for 04 May 2025.
The public re warned that the Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Monaragala and Hambantota districts.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) sources said that plans were afoot to file charges in connection with 15 major fraud and corruption cases in the near future.
The Commission sources said that these cases stem from thorough investigations into complaints that had previously gone unexamined, with recent file reviews prompting the decision to proceed with legal action. The forthcoming charges are based on detailed inquiries that uncovered substantial evidence pointing to serious misconduct.
To date, CIABOC has initiated inquiries into over 300 complaints received during the recent period, reflecting an expanded commitment to tackling corruption at multiple levels of governance.
Commission sources said that several former ministers and political affiliates from past administrations are among those implicated in the ongoing investigations, though specific names have yet to be disclosed.
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