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Record 257 cataract surgeries performed at Kuliyapitiya Hospital

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On Poson Full Moon Day a remarkable cataract surgery camp was held at the Kuliyapitiya Teaching Hospital, led by Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr. Kasun Gunawardena.

Dr. Kasun
Gunawardena

In an extraordinary display of dedication and skill, Dr Gunawardena singlehandedly performed 257 phacoemulsification surgeries (cataract removal and intraocular lens implantation) from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on June 10, 2025. This exceptional achievement sets a new record for the highest number of phacoemulsification surgeries (cataract removal with intraocular lens implantation) performed by a surgeon in a single day — the highest ever recorded in both Sri Lanka and globally.

The success of this camp was made possible through the generous support of the hospital administration and a few private donors, alongside the tireless efforts of the hospital staff. Due to the absence of functional facilities for cataract surgery over the past six months at the Kuliyapitiya Teaching Hospital, essential equipment was sourced from the Base Hospitals of Marawila and Dambeniya.

Doctors, nurses, junior staff, and administrative personnel of the hospital and ophthalmology unit worked diligently for several days to support the initiative and ensure its smooth execution.

This inspiring effort not only restored vision of hundreds of patients but also highlighted the power of commitment, collaboration, and compassion in delivering quality healthcare to those in need.

When The Island contacted Dr. Gunawardena, he said that there were 2,000 more cataract patients wait-listed at the Kuliyapitiya Hospital and the non availability of a phacoemulsification machine at the hospital had led to the delay.

“The Health Ministry has already placed an order for a phacoemulsification machine for the Kuliyapitiya hospital and until the machine is delivered, we have to seek the assistance of some private companies and other hospitals for a machine and they oblige whenever we seek their assistance,” he said.

Director of the hospital Dr. K.A.R.P. Jayathilake said a phacoemulsification machine would cost the government around Rs. 20 million and it was expected to be delivered at the Kuliyapitiya Teaching Hospital in a few months.

Dr. Gunawardana has also conducted numerous charity-based cataract surgery camps in the recent months at the Vavuniya District Hospital, Ampara District Hospital, and the Nuwara Eliya District Hospital, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to restoring sight and serving underprivileged communities across the country. (HG)



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Sun directly overhead Pandatharippu, Thellippalai, Varuthaleivilan, Vasavilan, and Manatkaadu about 12:10 noon today (15)

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On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka from the 05th to 15th of April in this year.

The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (15th) are Pandatharippu, Thellippalai, Varuthaleivilan, Vasavilan, and Manatkaadu about 12:10 noon.

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Heat Index at ‘Caution Level’ in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Eastern and Southern provinces and in Monaragala district

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Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 14 April 2026, valid for 15 April 2026.

The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Eastern and Southern
provinces and in 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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“I extend my heartfelt wishes to all Sri Lankans for a peaceful and joyous Sinhala and Tamil New Year!” – President

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake,  issuing a New Year message, extend his heartfelt wishes to all Sri Lankans for a peaceful and joyous Sinhala and Tamil New Year!

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, which symbolises the aspiration for renewal both physically and spiritually, is the foremost cultural festival of the people of this country.

During the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, traditional customs are upheld, with priority accorded to rituals and religious observances, and activities undertaken collectively at a common auspicious time. This shared cultural practice vividly reflects our nation’s identity before the world, as well as the strong socio-cultural bonds that exist among our communities.

We firmly believe that the future path of national development can only be shaped in harmony with this invaluable culture and our distinguished historical heritage. Accordingly, it must be recalled that all our future development plans have been formulated upon the firm foundation of these precious traditions and cultural values.

Moreover, the common aspiration embodied in the customs and rituals associated with the solar transition is the nurturing of a compassionate individual who values togetherness, respects others, and lives in harmony with nature. I believe that the virtues and values of unity reflected in these New Year traditions should not be confined to these few days alone, but should instead be demonstrated throughout the year in our daily conduct.

In the face of the most significant recent natural disaster challenge encountered in the past year, we demonstrated to the world our resilience and capacity to withstand internal shocks. At the same time, in responding to the external challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East, the Government has already set in motion a well-planned and effectively managed programme to overcome these difficulties.

As a nation, in overcoming these challenges together, I call upon all of you to further dedicate yourselves to enriching your lives through the values of togetherness, sharing, and solidarity exemplified during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year season.

As we strengthen the achievements we have secured and move forward with unwavering resolve in the face of emerging challenges, I invite everyone to join hands in unity to realise the vision of “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life” for all.

I extend my heartfelt wishes to all Sri Lankans for a peaceful and joyous Sinhala and Tamil New Year!

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