The closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance system installed for the security of Anuradhapura city is currently inactive, raising concerns among residents, officials, and legal professionals.

Although 47 cameras were installed under this system, none are currently operational, significantly affecting crime detection and law enforcement efforts, officials said.

The North Central Provincial Council had initially installed CCTV systems in Anuradhapura, Habarana, and Polonnaruwa in 2017 at a cost of Rs. 7 million. The primary objective of the project was to support police investigations into crimes and other irregularities in the city.

However, the surveillance system became defunct in April 2024 when the service agreement with the private company responsible for its maintenance expired.

Given Anuradhapura’s status as a major tourist destination, locals emphasize the urgent need for a functioning surveillance system to ensure public safety. The non-operational cameras have raised concerns about the potential increase in criminal activity, including drug trafficking.

When contacted for comment, the Governor of the North Central Province Wasantha Jinadasa acknowledged the issue and assured that steps would be taken to restore surveillance.

“We contacted the relevant institution, and they informed us that the existing CCTV system cannot be restored due to its expiration. They have promised to submit proposals for a new system, but we have not received any yet. However, we are committed to activating a new system as soon as possible,” Governor Jinadasa said.

By Nisheni Atapattu

An inclusive support center has been opened at the Makumbura multi modal centre to facilitate differently-abled passengers in public transportation.

“Employees with special needs have been employed for the service of this Help Desk,” a government statement said.

The support centre will provide passengers with many services such as an emergency notification number, ease of communication for hearing-impaired passengers and ease of access to information.

This will help ensure inclusivity in public transport by creating easy access to services for the differently abled and protecting women, the statement read.

The website of the Makumbura Multimodal Transport Center was also launched.

(ECONOMYNEXT)

Acentura Inc., in collaboration with RELEX Solutions, hosted the “Smart Threads” event at Amari Colombo, focusing on AI-driven solutions for the apparel industry. The event brought together industry leaders, manufacturers, and technology experts to discuss the impact of AI on production planning, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Ashi Dhanatunge of Acentura and Ashroff Omar, Honourary Consul General of Finland, emphasized the need for Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers to adopt digital technologies. Keynote speakers from RELEX Solutions, Christer Liden and Guruprasad Bhat, highlighted the role of AI in optimizing supply chains and reducing waste. Omar stressed the importance of modernization, comparing global brands like Shein and Zara to traditional manufacturers. A panel discussion on On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) delivery and leveraging AI technologies was also held, with experts from MAS Holdings, RELEX Solutions, and Acentura. The event concluded with a networking reception for future collaborations.