News

Public advised to wear masks as air pollution and fog persist

Published

5 months ago

January 30, 2025

editor

In light of the foggy conditions prevailing in many parts of the country, Consultant Respiratory Physician Dr. Neranjan Dissanayake urged the public not to panic, noting that such weather is not abnormal.

However, he recommends that individuals with respiratory issues wear masks during this period. “For others, wearing a mask is also beneficial,” he adds.

Speaking to Daily Mirror, Dr. Dissanayake cautions that standard surgical masks may not offer maximum protection against the tiny particles present in the fog.

He emphasized that the impact on individuals without respiratory problems depends on the specific substances in the air. “Nevertheless, sensitive individuals should remain vigilant, he added.

Recent data indicates a rise in air pollution levels across various parts of Sri Lanka.

According to the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), areas including Colombo, Kandy, Puttalam, Vavuniya, and Jaffna have experienced increased particulate matter in the atmosphere.

The NBRO reports that the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has more than doubled in recent days, reaching values between 100 and 150 on the U.S. Air Quality Index, a range that can significantly affect sensitive groups.

The poor air quality is caused by polluted air originating from India as well as locally generated pollutants, according to NBRO.

As of January 29, 2025, the real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) in Sri Lanka stands at 132, categorized as ‘Poor.’ This level is particularly unhealthy for sensitive individuals, who are advised to reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.

As such, Dr. Dissanayake advises the public to stay informed about air quality levels and to take appropriate precautions, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

(dailymirror.lk)
(Except for the headline, this story, originally published by dailymirror.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Japan grants US$ 2.5 mn. to SL to strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms

Published

13 minutes ago

July 1, 2025

editor

The Government of Japan has granted USD 2.5 million to Sri Lanka to strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms under a 3-year project for Promoting Prosecution of Corrupt Practices through the Establishment of Anti-corruption Mechanism.

Japanese ambassador in Sri Lanka – Mr. Akio Isomata and UNDP resident representative in Sri Lanka – Ms. Azusa Kubota, in the presence of Justice Minister – Harshana Nanayakkara, launched ‘The Project for Promoting Prosecution of Corrupt Practices through the Establishment of Anti-Corruption Mechanism’

The three year initiative is supported by the Government of Japan and implemented by the UNDP Sri Lanka, working in close collaboration with the (CIABOC) and the Ministry of Justice.

The project aims to promote transparency, accountability and integrity in governance and business practices through effective and institutionalised preventive mechanisms in the public and investment promotion sectors, strengthen institutions to enhance corruption related investigative processes, improve coordination with stakeholders and ensure quality of prosecutions, empower citizens to effectively mobilise against corruption and enhance social accountability.

The project also seeks to engage and empower youth, children and journalists to actively contribute to the fight against corruption and promote a culture of integrity.

News

3 ex-DMT officials including ex-commissioner, arrested

Published

25 minutes ago

July 1, 2025

editor

Former Commissioner General Nishantha Weerasingha and two other former officials of the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) have been arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).

The arrests were made as part of an investigation into vehicles that were illegally registered with the Department of Motor Traffic without receiving proper clearance from Sri Lanka Customs, CIABOC said in a statement.

According to CIABOC, former Commissioner General Nishantha Weerasinghe has been arrested for granting approval to issue a number plate for a jeep.

Additionally, a former Assistant Director of Information Technology at the department and a clerk have also been taken into custody for facilitating the illegal data entry and executing it.

The suspects are scheduled to be produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court.

News

Ex-Immigration Controller pleads guilty

Published

3 hours ago

July 1, 2025

editor

Controller of Immigration and Emigration – Harsha Illukpitiya, today (July 01) unconditionally pleaded guilty before the Supreme Court in a case related to contempt of court.

The charge stemmed from his failure to comply with a court order related to the e-visa issuance process.

The Supreme Court announced that sentencing will take place on July 24.