News

New water tariff formula to be introduced soon

Published

2 years ago

July 19, 2023

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A new water tariff formula and policy would be introduced after reviewing the water tariffs in the coming months, in line with the government’s commitment to development partners, Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Minister Jeevan Thondaman said.

He said the water tariff increase was a necessary step taken to address the critical challenges faced by the National Water Supply & Drainage Board (NWSDB) and ensure clean drinking water to all Sri Lankans.

“I want to assure you that while the tariff increase is necessary to ensure the sustainability of our water sector, I remain committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. Samurdhi and Tenement consumers, representing the lowest socioeconomic backgrounds, will not see any tariff increases and will therefore continue to receive the necessary subsidies, alleviating any additional financial burden.”

“It is also important to note that the proposed tariff increase includes provisions to subsidise low water consumers, schools, hospitals and religious establishments. This measure aims to support those who consume less water, come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and provide essential social services. The monthly water bills of low water consumers will remain below Rs. 1,000,” he said.

He expressed these views yesterday (18) during a press conference themed ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’ held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC).

News

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

Published

55 minutes ago

July 1, 2025

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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.

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3 ex-DMT officials including ex-commissioner, remanded

Published

1 hour ago

July 1, 2025

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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 were produced before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court and were ordered to be remanded until July 08.

News

Ex-Immigration Controller pleads guilty

Published

4 hours ago

July 1, 2025

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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.