Kandi: Latest News

COLOMBO (News 1st); Over 250 female athletes arrived in Sri Lanka for the challenging 'Raid Amazones' adventure event that will take place in March 2023 in Sri Lanka.Raid Amazones will hit the fabled streets of the hill capital, Kandy with the participation of over 250 female athletes. Raid Amazones is a coveted annual destination adventure event originating from France, which features female athletes competing their way through a range of challenges such as orienteering, mountain biking, canoeing, riding, running and archery. Sri Lanka was chosen over rival destinations by the event’s founders due to the unparalleled warmth of its people and support on ground to pull off a successful event.

PMD: President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that the Royal College cricket team’s effective captaincy ultimately led to the team’s victory at a time when all of the matches were being lost and that his effort is to lift the defeated country to the path of victory similar to what the captain of the Royal College cricket team did.The President recalled that when he assumed office last July, the country was experiencing numerous crises such as shortage of fuel, food, and fertilizer. He compared this to the Royal team, which had suffered a string of defeats, and claimed that many people believed the country would not be able to recover.However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed that his team was able to change that situation and create economic stability in the country in the last seven months and emphasized that Sri Lanka is no longer a bankrupt state.President Ranil Wickremesinghe made this statement while addressing the 32nd Interact District Conference held at Temple Trees on Sunday morning (19).He said that everyone would be able to witness a developing country in the next two years, and to make Sri Lanka the most prosperous country in the region, it is necessary to build the economy in addition to stabilizing it today.The President added that the 25-year plan to make Sri Lanka a successful nation by 2048 has already been implemented and it can only be achieved with the commitment of the current youth.This conference was organized by St.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Six university students who were arrested during Wednesday (8) night's protest at the Kelaniya University will be produced to the Mahara Magistrate on Thursday (9).Sri Lanka Police fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse a group of university students at the Kelaniya University premises. This protest commenced at around 9 PM on Wednesday (8).This protest was organized against the arrest of Student Leader Kelum Mudannayake, and Student Activist Dilshan Harshana, and the students demanded their immediate release.Though tear gas and water cannons were used multiple times to disperse the protesting students, they continued to engage in the protest until midnight.One lane along the Colombo – Kandy main road was completely blocked due to the protest, disrupting the movement of traffic.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe told Parliament on Thursday (23) that the country's National Election Commission has not legally called for an election, and there are no funds to conduct an election.Commenting on the debate requested by the opposition on postponing the election, the President said there is no election for one to be postponed."The Election Commission had gone to court and said that it cannot conduct an election. However, an affidavit was provided. It states that the Commission has been informed by the Secretary of the Treasury that he is unable to provide the necessary funds to conduct the election.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that an Economic Commission will be formed as early as possible replacing the Board of Investment and the Board of Exports.President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks at the opening of the country’s first migratory bird park and eco-tourism zone in Hanthane, Kandy (20).He stated that an Economic Commission will be formed as early as possible to approve investment opportunity in order to provide more opportunities to local and foreign investors.The President also stated that it has the potential to significantly boost the country’s economy."More investment opportunities are necessary for Sri Lanka to embark on a new economic path. It takes ten years to approve a firm after an investor arrives in Sri Lanka. This situation should be changed.

The historic Temple of the Tooth Relic in the city of Kandy will host a Janaraja Perahara on February 19th, after 34 years.The procession has been organized to coincide with the 75th Independence Celebration, and it will be inaugurated under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.According to the Coordinating Officer and the Cultural Officer of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the procession will begin from the Magul Maduwa premises at 6.30 pm on February 19th. It will parade along the Dalada Street, Yatinuvara Street, Kanda Street, Raja Street, and return to the temple, marking the end of the event.

COLOMBO (News 1st); General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of Pakistan arrived in Sri Lanka for a three day visit.The visiting General and his entourage arrived in the island at the cordial invitation extended by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil. Commencing the official tour in Sri Lanka, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M) visited the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff where the visiting General was formally received in a colourful Guard of Honour, accorded on his behalf by the troops of the Sri Lanka Army. Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza dedicated time for the discussions highlighting the importance of continued close relations between the two friendly nations and recalled the past memories and assistance readily extended to Sri Lanka, particularly during the height of the combat against the LTTE terrorism and remembered the bonds of understanding and goodwill that prevails between two forces throughout the years. Further, CDS conveyed his gratefulness to the Pakistan Defence Forces for the support extended to the defence sector of Sri Lanka in numerous means such as training and modern military equipment to the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. At the same time, CDS thankfully emphasized the assistance extended during the disastrous situations and stated that he looked forward to continuing the strong ties in the same spirit in the future as well.As the cordial discussions drew to a close, General Shavendra Silva symbolized the existing sound working relations by presenting a special memento to the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan while wishing him all

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Indian Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri V. Muraleedharan will be visiting Colombo to participate in the celebrations connected with the 75th Independence Day of Sri Lanka on 4 February 2023.The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that his visit will take place at the invitation of the Government of Sri Lanka.During the visit, the Minister of State will also have separate bilateral interactions with President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister, Mr.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Former Archbishop of Colombo His Grace the Most Rev. Dr Oswald Gomis was called to eternal rest at the age of 90 during the early hours on Friday (3).The remains of the late Most Rev. Dr Oswald Gomis will be moved to the Bishops' House at noon on Friday (3).His Grace the Most Rev.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The ‘75th Independence Anniversary Commemoration Medal’ was introduced to the Sri Lankan Tri-Forces recently. Symbolising the bestowal of the new medal, the Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, Commanders of the Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force, and a cross section of the tri services that is comprised of both officers and other ranks were ceremonially awarded the medal by the the president Ranil Wickremesinghe.Addressing the event in Kandy on Wednesday (1), President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that although lives lost during the war cannot be regained, the income lost during the economic war could be regained.The President also pointed out that the stability of political and territorial integrity of a country is the best factor to win over the economic war.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has given out instruction to celebrate the 75th Independence Day with pride, at minimal cost.A pre-discussion was held on Thursday (26) at the President's Office chaired by President Ranil Wickremesinghe regarding the Independence Day celebration being held in a grand and proud manner, but maintaining minimum cost.Accordingly, in conjunction with the 75th Independence Day celebration, many special programs are scheduled to be implemented from February 2nd to the 19th. According to the President's Media Division the following events have been planned:Special Dalada Pooja and Pirith chanting Religious ceremonies of all faiths Cultural show held at Independence Square Traditional Independence Day celebration main event held at Galle Face Green National parks and Zoo's will be open to the public free of charge Opening of the Jaffna Cultural Centre Kandy republic parade Cycle race from Dondra Head to Point PedroThe President advised the officials that it is their responsibility as well as that of the political authority, to pay attention to the current financial situation of the country while estimating the expenses required for these activities.The President had advised that spending must be practical, and minimal.While pointing out that there is huge opposition among the people regarding the allocation of funds for the 75th Independence Day celebration, the President emphasized that efforts should be made to minimize the related expenses.Expressing his views further, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, “We must celebrate the 75th Independence Anniversary, otherwise, the world will say that we are not capable of celebrating even our independence.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Colombo High Court Judge Aditya Patabendige rejected a request to acquit and release former ASP Kulasiri Udugampola, a defendant in the case filed over the raids carried out at military intelligence safe houses including the Millennium City safe house.Counsel made the request to acquit and release the defendant without calling for evidence.The case was filed over the raids carried out at military intelligence safe houses between 1st of January 2002 and 3rd of September 2002 in Colombo, Athurugiriya, Kandy and Kadugannawa, seizing their military equipment and taking photographs and videos of the said equipment.In addition, the case was filed for arresting Military Intelligence personnel and exposing military secrets.The Colombo High Court Judge Aditya Patabendige issuing the order on the request made by the counsel appearing for the Former ASP noted that the court has decided to continue with the case by calling for evidence from the defense based on the evidence produced to the court by the prosecution.The Colombo High Court Judge ordered for the case to be called up again on the 21st of February for the evidence from the defense, and ordered for the evidence list to be produced to the court ahead of that date.Deputy Solicitor General Sudarshana De Silva appearing for the Attorney General had requested the court to reject a request to acquit and release former ASP Kulasiri Udugampola, without calling for evidence from the defense.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The bilateral agreement related to raising the limit of the High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) implemented in Sri Lanka with the support of the Government of India was signed during the meeting between Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Colombo on Friday (20).The Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Mahinda Siriwardena, signed the agreement on behalf of Sri Lanka and the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay signed on behalf of India.This agreement guides many community development projects in Sri Lanka with the support of the Government of India.This agreement related to community development projects in Sri Lanka was signed in May 2005.

Colombo (News 1st) – The National Dengue Control Unit says that 4178 Dengue patients were reported within the first two weeks of the year. The most number of patients were reported from the Colombo District and the number of patients were 871. The number of patients reported from the Gampaha District was at 846 as well.The number of dengue patients reported from the Kalutara district was at 224 while 190 patients were reported from Kandy as well for this year so far. 533 dengue patients were reported from the Puttalam District as well. The National Dengue Control Unit reported that 255 patients had been identified in the the Jaffna district as well within the first two weeks of this month. 

COLOMBO (News 1st) – An exhibition of the Sacred Tooth will be held at the premises of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy on 4th March to coincide with the 75th National Independence Day celebrations, said Ashoka Priyantha, the country's State Minister of Home Affairs.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Criminal Investigations Department on Thursday (29) arrested the Former Chairman of the Student Union of the University of Peradeniya Anuradha Vidanage.Sri Lanka Police said that he was arrested over the incident where the Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, and his son were assaulted by a group.The arrest was made opposite the Kandy Court Complex on Thursday (29) evening.The current Chairman of the Student Union of the University of Peradeniya Chamid Sathsara said that the Former Chairman was arrested while returning from a legal matter in court.

Colombo (News 1st) – Heavy rain and strong winds wreaked havoc across Sri Lanka on Christmas Day, killing at least two people as the depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal began moving across Sri Lanka.Police said two people died and three were injured as a boulder fell on a house in an earth slip at Alawathugoda in the Kandy District.The Parakrama Samudraya in Polonnaruwa and Giant’s Tank in Mannar begin spilling over due to heavy rain, Irrigation Dept officials said.

Colombo (News 1st) – The ten students who were arrested on Tuesday (13) over the assault carried out on former Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University Senior Professor Athula Senaratne and his son have been remanded until 22 December 2022.The suspects were produced before the Kandy Magistrate's Court on Tuesday (13).The arrests were carried out after they surrendered themselves to the Peradeniya Police Station.The suspects, aged between 23 and 25, are residents of Nittambuwa, Sandalangala, Giritale, Matale, Henegamuwa and Galagamwatta.Police said another two suspects have been identified, adding that investigations are underway to apprehend them.A group of students attacked the former Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University, Senior Professor Athula Senaratne and his son, and caused damage to his house on Saturday (10) night.Chairman of the University Grants Commission Professor Sampath Amaratunga stated that 300 students were involved in the attack, and stern legal action will be taken against them.The 12 students involved in the attack have been expelled from the university.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that several spells of showers will occur in Northern, Eastern and North-Central provinces.Showers or thundershowers will occur elsewhere during the afternoon or night.Fairly heavy showers above 75mm are likely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.Condition of Rain:Showers or thundershowers will occur in several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Batticaloa to Pottuvil. Showers or thundershowers will occur in the other sea areas around the island during the afternoon or night.Winds:Winds will be north-easterly and speed will be (25-35) kmph.State of Sea:The sea areas around the island will be slight to moderate.Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The National Dengue Control Unit noted that multiple areas across seven provinces in Sri Lanka have been declared at Dengue High-Risk Zones.According to the latest data from the National Dengue Control Unit attached to the Ministry of Health Piliyandala, Homagama, Maharagama, Pitakotte, Kaduwela and Gothatuwa areas in the Colombo District have been declared as Dengue High-Risk Zones.13 MOH areas in the Gampaha District including Attanagalle, Biyagama, Divulaptiya, Ja-Ela, and Kelaniya have been declared as  Dengue High-Risk Zones.The Beruwala and Kalutara MOH areas in the Kalutara District are also Dengue High-Risk Zones.Three MOH areas in the Kandy District also are Dengue High-Risk Zones, while the same number exists in the North and Eastern provinces.Sri Lanka has recorded over 63,500 dengue cases so far in 2022, and a majority of these cases are from the Western Province.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka Police has issued a letter informing the various protest groups – including students, trade, and political bodies – who planned to protest in Colombo on Tuesday (2), stating that permission will not be granted to protest opposite the Fort Railway Station or in close proximity.The letter bears the signature of Colombo Central Division 1 Police Superintendent K. A.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A Sri Lankan has died in the stampede which took place during a halloween festival in Seoul, South Korea.When inquired by News 1st, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry stated that a 27-year-old resident of Kandy had died.The minister mentioned that representatives have been directed to the Police and hospitals in Seoul to find out if more Sri Lankans have been killed, or injured.The Minister said that they are looking for more information regarding the incident through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Sri Lankan Embassy in South Korea.South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol declared a period of national mourning on Sunday after a Halloween crush killed some 151 people in a packed nightlife area in Seoul.Yoon expressed condolences to the victims, mostly teenagers and people in their 20s, and his wishes for a speedy recovery to the many injured."This is truly tragic," he said in a statement. "A tragedy and disaster that should not have happened took place in the heart of Seoul last night."A huge crowd celebrating in the popular Itaewon district surged into an alley on Saturday night, emergency officials said, adding the death toll could rise.Choi Sung-beom, head of the Yongsan Fire Station, said 151 deaths had been confirmed, including 19 foreigners.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Coconut cultivations across multiple districts have been severely affected due to the Coconut White Fly infestation.The Coconut White Fly, which was reported for the first time from the Kegalle district in 2019, is currently widespread in several districts.The Assistant Director of the Coconut Research Institute, Dr.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – 30 people sutained injuries in an accident when two passenger buses collided head-on along the Colombo-Kandy main road.The accident took place in Mawanella, Anwaram along the Colombo – Kandy main road Police said that the accident took place between a private passenger bus and an SLTB bus.The private passenger bus was enroute to Nuwara Eliya from Kegalle while the SLTB bus was travelling from Mawanella to Kegalle.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A daring rescue operation was launched to rescue a young man trapped in the middle of the Mahaweli River, while the search continues to locate another missing man.A major rescue operation got underway in Waratenne, Kandy after two young men were swept away by strong currents in the Mahawelia River.Initial reports said that the two men were swimming with several others.One of the young men had managed to cling on to a rock in the middle of the river, braving the strong currents from Sri Lanka's longest river.The rescue operation was launched by the Life Saving Team from the Kandy Police, and the Sri Lanka Army.With the assistance of two local men, the life saving teams managed to successfully retreive the man following a two hour rescue missing.The search continues to locate the other missing man.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka Police and the Inter-University Student's Federation were engaged in a stand-off on Tuesday (18).The stand-off took place when the police decided to block the Colombo – Kandy main road to prevent a protest march from proceeding from the University of Kelaniya citing that 6-hour prior approval was not obtained.Multiple arrests were also made during the protest.Inter-University Student's Federation launched their protest march against suppression on a rainy Tuesday (18) afternoon.They demanded the release of the two student activists who are being held under the Prevention of Terrorism Act.They also emphasized to stop the repression immediately.But when the police informed that the march could not be allowed because permission was not obtained 6 hours prior, a heated situation arose. Then, as the students moved towards Colombo, the police announced to disperse immediately. The group protesting on the road in front of the university later attempted to proceed forward again. There the police announced to disperse for the second time and several people were arrested. A heated situation arose again when a couple riding a motorcycle on the road claimed to have shown support to the students. However, the students did not attempt to continue with today's march and dispersed after student activists addressed the gathering in front of Kelaniya University. 

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Police say that 1,620 people have been displaced in many areas due to the Kelani river overflowing.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that atmospheric conditions are favorable for evening thundershowers in Uva, Eastern, Northern and North-central provinces.Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Uva, Eastern, Northern, and North-central provinces during the evening or night. Fairly heavy showers above 75mm can be expected in some places.Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-western provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.Condition of Rain:Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the sea area off the coast extending from Kankasanturai to Batticaloa via Trincomalee. Showers will occur at a few places in the other sea areas.Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.Wind speed may increase up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.A few showers may occur in the Jaffna district during the morning.Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Uva, Eastern, and North-Central provinces and Vavuniya and Mullaitivu districts during the evening or night.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at times in the sea area off the coast extending from Kankasanturai to Batticaloa via Trincomalee. Showers will occur at a few places in the other sea areas around the Island.Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.Wind speed may increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota. Wind speed may increase up to (40-45) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.State of Sea:The sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil will be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle will be fairly rough.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Uva, Eastern, and Northern provinces during the evening or night.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at several places in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo.Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.Wind speed may increase up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo. Wind speed may increase up to (50-60) kmph from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota.State of Sea:The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle will be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough and very rough at times.There is a possibility to increase swell waves by about (2.0 m – 2.5 m) in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle, and Hambantota.Therefore, it is advised to be vigilant in fishing and naval activities in the sea areas off the coast extending from Hambanthota to Pottuvil.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that showers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts. Fairly heavy falls of about 50 mm can be expected at some places in Sabaragamuwa Province.Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Uva and Eastern provinces during the evening or night.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at times in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo.Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (20-40) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo. Wind speed may increase up to (55-60) kmph from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota. State of Sea:The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo will be rough at times and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough and very rough at times.There is a possibility to increase swell waves about (2.5 m – 3.0 m) in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota and about (2.0 m – 2.5 m) in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo.Therefore, it is advised not to venture into fishing and naval activities in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambanthota and requested to be vigilant, in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombountil further notice.

COLOMBO (News 1st) –  The two men who were arrested for looting a tavern in Danowita, and engaging in a shootout with police were remanded to the 14th of October 2022.The two suspects were subject to an inspection by the Magistrate while they were being treated at the Ragama Hospital.The magistrate had ordered the suspects be remanded until the 14th, and be produced to the Attanagalla Magistrate's Court. On Sunday (2) morning a shootout took place between police, and a gang of thieves who were on the process of looting a tavern in DANOWITA, located along the Colombo – Kandy main road.A woman who was inside a bus traveling from Galunbindunuwewa to Colombo, that was passing the area was caught in the crossfire and lost her life.She was identified at 29-year-old Iresha Shamali from Bentara.The two men who were arrested for looting a tavern in Danowita, and engaging in a shootout with police were remanded to the 14th of October 2022.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that showers will occur at times in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts. Heavy falls above 100 mm can be expected at some places in Sabaragamuwa Province and Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts.Several spells of showers will occur in Northern and North-Western provinces.Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Uva province and Ampara district during the evening or night.Strong winds of about (50-55) kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the Central hills, Northern, North-Central, and Southern provinces, and in Trincomalee and Puttalam districts.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched an e-channeling appointment system in collaboration with SLT Mobitel on 29th September to render better and more efficient services to the public, who seek authentication services from the Consular Affairs Division in Colombo and its regional offices in Jaffna, Trincomalee, Kandy, Kurunegala and Matara.Accordingly, public who needs authentication services may schedule an appointment through the e-channeling appointment system dialing 225 (Mobile subscribers) or 1225 (landline subscribers) and visiting Mobitel e-channeling (www.echannelling.com) or official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mfa.gov.lk).Addressing the gathering at the launch, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry expressed that there is a demand for migrant workers from Sri Lanka. As a result, the services from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has doubled and resulted in long queues at the Authentication Section of the Consular Affairs Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.The public has been inconvenienced as a result of this and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs set out to offer a better service to the people, the Minister said.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that showers will occur at times in Sabaragamuwa province and in Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts.Several spells of showers will occur in Western and North-Western provinces and Galle and Matara districts.Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Uva province and Ampara and Batticaloa districts during the evening or night.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at times in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo.Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.Wind speed may increase up to (50-60) kmph at times the sea area off the coast extends from Puttalam to Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota. Wind speed may increase up to (45-50) kmph at times in the other sea areas around the Island.State of Sea:The sea area off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough. The sea area off the coast extending from Kankasanturai to Matara via Mannar, Colombo, and Galle will be rough at times and the other sea areas around the Island may be fairly rough at times.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the General Public that the computer system breakdown, experienced in the Attestation & Verification unit of the Consular Affairs Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its Regional Offices in Jaffna, Trincomalee, Kandy, Kurunegala, & Matara has been resolved and the Attestation & Verification service will resume from today (20) onwards.All other services of the Consular Division will also continue to be provided.For further details the visiting service seekers may contact;Consular Affairs Division, Colombo 01 – 0112338812/0112338843 Regional Office, Jaffna – 0212215970 Regional Office, Trincomalee – 0262223182 Regional Office, Kandy – 0812384410 Regional Office, Kurunegala – 0372225941 Regional Office, Matara – 0412226697

COLOMBO (News 1st) –  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will resume its attestation and verification service from Tuesday (20), following a recent computer system breakdown.Moreover, the MFA stated that the attestation and verification services at regional offices in Jaffna, Trincomalee, Kandy, Kurunegala, and Matara have also been resolved, and all other services of the consular division will also be provided.For further details the visiting service seekers may contact;Consular Affairs Division, Colombo 01    0112338812/0112338843 Regional Office, Jaffna                                0212215970 Regional Office, Trincomalee                    0262223182 Regional Office, Kandy                               0812384410 Regional Office, Kurunegala                     0372225941 Regional Office, Matara                             0412226697  

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that a few showers will occur in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Mainly fair weather will prevail elsewhere over the island.-Condition of Rain:A few showers will occur in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo.-Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (20-35) kmph.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Due to a computer system breakdown, services of the Verification and Attestation units of the Consular Affairs Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Colombo 01 and its Regional Offices in Jaffna, Trincomalee, Matara, Kandy, Kurunegala, have been suspended until further notice.The system repairs are underway and the public will be notified once the Verification and Attestation process has resumed, said the Foreign Ministry.Other Consular services will continue without any interruption.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause the public.The visiting service seekers may further check with the following phone numbers on the feasibility of services on their matters;-Consular Affairs Division, Colombo 01       0112338812/0112338843-Regional Office, Jaffna                                 0212215 970-Regional Office, Trincomalee                       0262223182-Regional Office, Kandy                                 0812384410-Regional Office, Kurunegala                         0372225941

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Meteorology says that a few showers will occur in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva and Eastern province during the evening or night.Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at a few places in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (20-40) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (40-50) kmph at times the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to   Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil.State of Sea:The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be fairly rough at times.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts are likely to experience showers today (14).Mainly fair weather will prevail elsewhere over the island.-Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at a few places in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.-Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.Wind speed may increase up to (45-55) kmph at times the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to   Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil.-State of Sea:The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough at times.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Showers are expected in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Mainly fair weather will prevail elsewhere over the island, said the Tuesday (13) morning weather report.-Condition of Rain:Showers will occur at a few places in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.-Winds:Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (45-55) kmph at times the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to   Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil.-State of Sea:The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough at times.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Department of Meteorology says that Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Mainly fair weather will prevail elsewhere over the island.Strong winds of about 50 kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the Central hills, Northern and North-Central provinces, and in the Trincomalee district.Showers will occur at several places in the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.Further, winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (50-60) kmph at times the sea area off the coast extending from Puttalam to   Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil.The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankasanturai via Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle will be fairly rough at times. The other sea areas around the island may be moderate.

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Meteorology says that several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Strong winds of about 50 kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the Central hills.The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Trincomalee via Mannar and Kankasanturai and from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle will be fairly rough at times.

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Meteorology says that showers will occur at times in the Sabaragamuwa province and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Several spells of showers will occur in Western and North-Western provinces.Fairly heavy showers above 50mm may occur at some places in Sabaragamuwa province and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Kalutara, Galle, and Matara districts.Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Uva and Eastern province during the evening or night.Strong winds of about 50 kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the Central hills.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.On the apparent southward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka until the 07th of September in this year.

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Meteorology says it is expected that heavy rain will reduce today (6).Further, showers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts. Fairly heavy showers above 50mm may occur at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Several spells of showers may occur in the Northern and North-central provinces.Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Uva and Eastern province during the evening or night.Strong winds of about 50 kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the Central hills.The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.On the apparent southward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka until the 07th of September in this year. The nearest towns of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (06) are Bentotta (Kaluthara district), Pothupitiya (Rarhnapura district), and Bodagama (Monaragala district) at about 12.09 noon.

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Meteorology says that showers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Heavy showers above 150mm may occur at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts.Action Required by the Met Dept.;-People living in hilly areas (particularly landslide-prone areas) and low-lying areas in river basins are requested to be vigilant-Drivers and people using roads in hilly areas are requested to be vigilant-Take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by lightning activity-Beware of fallen trees and power lines-Be alert to the advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology-For emergency assistance contact the local disaster management authorities

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Department of Meteorology says that showery condition is expected to enhance some extent in the south-western part (Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts) of the island from today (03) afternoon for next few days.Showers will occur at times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, and Matara districts. Fairly heavy rainfalls above 50mm may occur at some places in Sabaragamuwa province and Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, and Kaluthara districts.Several spells of showers will occur in the Jaffna district.Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Uva province and Batticaloa and Ampara districts during the evening or night.Strong winds of about 50 kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the Central hills.