News
LOLC ventures into Islamic micro finance in Bara Kahu, Islamabad, with a branch
The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka Rear Admiral (Rtd.) Fred Seneviratne officially inaugurated the 88th microfinance branch of LOLC at Bara Kahu, Islamabad, on 23 December, 2025, marking another significant milestone for the organisation, according to a press release issued from the Sri Lanka HC in Islamabad.
This branch represents LOLC Group’s entry into a new era of Shariah-compliant banking in Pakistan with the inauguration of “LOLC Islamic” and the launch of its first Islamic microfinance branch in Bara Kahu, Islamabad.
Addressing the gathering, as the Chief Guest, the High Commissioner commended LOLC for its continued contribution to financial inclusion and economic empowerment, while emphasising the crucial role of ethical and inclusive finance in fostering economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. He noted that the expansion of LOLC’s microfinance services, particularly through Islamic banking principles, constitutes a noteworthy achievement and a significant milestone in the financial sector.
The High Commissioner further highlighted the long-standing and friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, emphasising the importance of sustained cooperation in trade, investment, and development, while also briefing the audience on Sri Lanka’s current economic situation and underscoring the country’s resilience and ongoing efforts toward recovery and growth.
The event was also attended by the Minister/Head of Chancery and the Defence Advisor of the High Commission, Mufti Shafique Ahmed Jakhura, Chairman of the Shariah Supervisory Board of LOLC Sri Lanka, senior officials of LOLC, representatives of the financial sector, and other invited guests.
The Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) TAIMUR and ASLAT arrived at the Port of Colombo on a goodwill visit on 12 Apr 26.
The visiting ships were welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in
compliance with naval traditions.
The duo of ships is commanded by Captain NIAMAT SAEED KHAN (PNS TAIMUR) and Captain NADIR MATEEN AFRIDI (PNS ASLAT).
Meanwhile, the ships are expected to conduct a Bilateral Naval Exercise LION STAR V with the Sri Lanka Navy in Colombo seas.
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Heat index likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Eastern provinces and Monaragala district
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre at 3.30 p.m. on 11 April 2026, valid for 12 April 2026
The Heat index, the temperature felt on the human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Eastern provinces and Monaragala district.
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.
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Sun directly overhead Cheddikulam, Kebithigollewa, Gomarankadawala and Nilaveli about 12:11 noon. today [12]
On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka from 05th to 15th of April in this year.
The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (12th) are Cheddikulam, Kebithigollewa, Gomarankadawala and Nilaveli about 12:11 noon.
PNS TAIMUR & ASLAT arrive in Colombo
Sanju Samson and Jamie Overton deliver first points for Chennai Super Kings
Arya, Prabhsimran and Shreyas help Punjab Kings ace another 200-plus chase
Beauty of Sri Lanka in focus: Global showcase blends art, diplomacy and conservation
Showers expected in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, North-western and Uva provinces and in Ampara, Batticaloa and Polonnaruwa districts after 1.00 p.m.
Heat index likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Eastern provinces and Monaragala district
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