News

LRT Project: Japanese embassy says Project loans depend on debt restructuring

Published

2 years ago

June 3, 2023

editor

In response to a query about the restart of the Japan-financed Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, the Japanese embassy in Colombo said the resumption of loan projects and the launch of a new loan project will depend on the progress of the debt restructuring process.

The Sri Lankan Cabinet gave approval this week to proceed with the resumption of the US $ 2.2 billion LRT project to be financed by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The line is to be constructed linking Malambe with Colombo Fort. The project was launched during the time of the previous Yahapalana government. However, in September, 2020, the Gotabaya Rajapaksa government scrapped the project.

During the recent visit to Japan, President Ranil Wickremesinghe sought to resume the project.

Responding to a query posed by Daily Mirror in this regard, the Japanese embassy said it is important for Sri Lanka to proceed with the debt restructuring process with all the creditors in a transparent, equal manner.

The embassy said Japan will see how to resume loan projects and start new loan projects while keeping an eye on the debt restructuring process.

(dailymirror.lk)

News

03 vehicles collide at railway crossing

Published

8 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

03 vehicles have collided at the Merawala railway crossing on the Chilaw-Colombo main road.

The accident occurred at around 6.25 a.m. this morning (May 21) when a van, which had stopped behind a fuel bowser at the Chilaw Marawala railway crossing while it was closed for train traffic, was rear-ended by a prime mover transporting cement.

The prime mover had been unable to stop due to brake failure.

The van involved in the accident sustained significant damage and Chilaw Police are currently conducting further investigations.

(Pic: Accident 1st)

News

Ramith Rambukwella arrives before CIABOC

Published

9 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

Ramith Rambukwella – son of former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella arrived at the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) earlier today (May 21) to record a statement.

Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali yesterday (May 20) ordered the further remand of Keheliya Rambukwella until June 03, following his arrest by the CIABOC over 03 complaints related to alleged corruption.

The court also granted permission to name Ramith Rambukwella as a suspect in the case.

News

Mahindananda seeks permission for home cooked meals

Published

9 hours ago

May 21, 2025

editor

Former Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage, who is currently in remand custody, has submitted a written request to prison authorities seeking permission to receive food from his home.

He is currently being held at the “M 2” ward of the Colombo Remand Prison along with around 10 other prisoners, according to reports.

It is also reported that former minister Keheliya Rambukwella is being detained in the same ward.