A Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) K-8 training jet crashed in the Wariyapola area earlier today.

The aircraft, manufactured in China, was on a training mission when it lost radar contact and crashed near Minuwangete.

According to the SLAF Spokesman, both pilots ejected safely using parachutes and escaped without injuries.

The jet, however, caught fire upon impact. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

The incident highlights the risks associated with military training exercises, though the safe ejection of the pilots underscores the effectiveness of emergency protocols.

(Pics : Accident 1st)

The Government of Japan, through a grant assistance of JPY 300 million, has decided to provide state-of-the-art Japanese fire trucks to the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen disaster response capabilities in the country’s Export Processing Zones (EPZs), ensuring a safer business environment and contributing to economic and social stability.

Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka – Mr. Akio Isomata SOMATA and Secretary of the Finance Ministry – Mr. K. M. M. Siriwardana, today (March 20) signed and exchanged notes in Colombo on this grant assistance.

The EPZs play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s economy by attracting investment and driving industrial growth. 

The increasing risks of fire hazards and other emergencies risk hampering its critical functions. 

The Japanese fire trucks, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will bolster the capacity of EPZs, safeguarding businesses, workers, and communities.

The project also underscores Japan’s unwavering commitment to addressing Sri Lanka’s socio-economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.

The Sri Lanka Navy conducted a successful shipwreck expedition from 10 to 17 Mar 25, focusing on historically significant shipwrecks located in the sea area off the coast of Colombo.

The expedition was carried out to document the current state of numerous shipwrecks lying beneath the waves, off Colombo. The survey included the Coal Wreck, Chief Dragon Car Carrier, MV Astoria, MT Nilgiri, Thermopylae Sierra, MV Pecheur Breton, Taprobane East Wreck, SS Worcestershire, Toilet Barge, SS Perseus and some other unidentified wrecks.

Navy divers explored a series of shipwrecks, including the historically significant SS Worcestershire and SS Perseus, both sunk during World War I. Beyond their historical value, the wrecks of the Chief Dragon Car Carrier and Thermopylae Sierra are now functioning as thriving artificial reefs, providing habitats for a variety of marine species.

A total of 14 diving officers and 15 diving sailors participated in this intensive shipwreck expedition. They used both atmospheric air and nitrox air mix as breathing agents, depending on depth and dive duration. This enhanced safety and efficiency, particularly for deeper and more complex dives.

As part of the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme, the Sri Lanka Navy has extended its all-out support to preserve the nation’s maritime heritage, while promoting the island as an appealing tourist destination. These efforts also reflect the Navy’s commitment to enhancing both educational and archaeological value through similar initiatives.

(Pics : navy.lk)