News

Security of Kelani Bridge to be entrusted with Rakna Lanka

Published

2 years ago

July 14, 2023

editor

It was reported that drug addicts have removed the copper wires and nails worth Rs.286 million from the Golden Gate Kalyani or the New Kelani Bridge which was constructed with loan assistance received from Japan.

The copper wires inside the concrete covers have been removed by breaking the concrete covers at night.

In addition, it was revealed that drug addicts have even cut the high voltage wires on the Katunayake-Colombo Expressway (E03). As a result, the authorities have been unable to keep the street lights on along the Expressway.

This was revealed at the National Security Council which met last Tuesday (11) under the chairmanship of the President.

Transport Ministry Secretary Priyantha Mayadunne and the officials of the Road Development Authority (RDA) have forwarded all the reports in this regard to the National Security Council.

Meanwhile, MP Sarath Weerasekera told the media that it was revealed at the National Security Subcommittee of Parliament chaired by him that the new Kelani Bridge is in danger due to the cutting of the copper cables connected from the ground. Accordingly, he had directed the responsible departments to ensure the security of the bridge immediately.

He has suggested making the area a high security zone.

Accordingly, it was reported that attention has been drawn to entrust the security of the bridge and the expressway to Rakna Arakshaka Lanka Limited.

In addition to the electric cables on the E03, even the safety nets have been cut and sold for iron.

The Golden Gate Kalyani was inaugurated on November 24, 2021.

News

COVID subvariants spreading in Asia detected in Sri Lanka

Published

10 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Medical Research Institute of Sri Lanka has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant currently spreading in the Asian region has also been identified in the country.

Dr. Jude Jayamaha, a specialist in viral diseases at the Medical Research Institute, stated that patients infected with the Omicron subvariants LF.7 and XFG are being reported locally.

Dr. Jayamaha explained that this finding was confirmed through research conducted on biological samples collected from several hospitals across the island.

However, he emphasized that there is no need for undue fear regarding these COVID-19 variants.

Health authorities have also stressed the importance of vulnerable groups—such as pregnant mothers, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses—following health guidelines, including wearing face masks and avoiding crowded places.

Dr. Jayamaha reiterated that new COVID-19 variants emerge periodically, and health authorities are continuously monitoring the situation, so the public should remain calm.

(newswire.lk)

(This story, originally published by newswire.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Anudi misses out from Miss World Quarter-Finals

Published

10 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Miss World organization has announced its quarter-finalists, selecting 40 contestants from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Sri Lanka’s Anudi Gunasekara, was not selected in the top 40, despite being recognized for her impressive performances in the Multimedia and Head-to-Head challenges.

The top 40 consisted of 10 contestants each from Asia & Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Americas.