Lifestyle
Adverse weather toll climbs past 31,000 across eight districts; Gampaha worst hit
DMC says more than 31,000 people across eight districts are now affected by the prevailing adverse weather, up from 28,933, with Gampaha still worst hit.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka expands cervical cancer screening with 18 new colposcopy machines in state hospitals
Twelve new colposcopy machines have been installed in state hospitals this year, with six more next month, raising the state-sector total from 15 to 33 units.
Lifestyle
Two workers injured as part of six-storey building collapses in Kandy
Two workers were injured when part of a six-storey building collapsed in Kandy on Sunday, police said; the cause was not immediately confirmed.
Lifestyle
Health Ministry confirms meningitis outbreak via CSF tests; cases now span Kurunegala and Kandy
Secretary Anil Jasinghe says lab tests on spinal-fluid samples confirm meningitis in over 100 patients across Deniyaya, Diyatalawa, Kurunegala and Kandy.
Lifestyle
Met Department warns of week-long heavy showers across south-west, May 28 peak
Galle, Matara, Kalutara and Ratnapura tipped worst-hit as widespread showers over 80mm are forecast on May 27, peaking May 28 with rain through May 29.
Lifestyle
Rivers Recede But Ja-Ela Bridge Collapses As Southwest Monsoon Set To Establish
The Kelani has returned to normal and the Kalu is easing, but a Ja-Ela bridge collapsed and the southwest monsoon is set to establish around May 26-27.
Lifestyle
47% of Sri Lankans cannot afford a nutritious diet, Wayamba professor tells NSF forum
Prof Renuka Silva says a nutritious household diet costs Rs. 1,707 a day — over three times a basic energy-sufficient diet — pushing diversity out of reach.
Lifestyle
Meteorology warns of week-long heavy showers across south-west Sri Lanka
The Department of Meteorology forecasts sustained heavy rain through May 29 with the worst flooding risk on May 28 in Galle, Matara, Kalutara and Ratnapura.
Lifestyle
Tuk-tuk driver arrested at Colombo Port for fleecing cruise tourists of Rs. 180,000
Driver agreed an Rs. 18,000 city-tour fare then withdrew Rs. 90,000 twice from a tourist's ATM card; tourist police recovered the full sum and arrested him.
Lifestyle
Gammadda Rebuild moves to Kandy with vocational training for Ditwah survivors
Gammadda Rebuild's Kandy phase ran a second day at the Kandy Technical College with masonry, carpentry, electrical and plumbing training for Ditwah survivors.
Lifestyle
One dead, 7,757 affected as NBRO issues Red landslide warnings for Kegalle and Ratnapura
DMC reports first monsoon fatality after a 64-year-old swept away in Divulapitiya; NBRO red-level evacuate warnings cover Kegalle and Ratnapura.
Lifestyle
Mellawagedara bridge collapses, Naikanda road blocked as Attanagalu Oya warning extends to Monday
Aththanagalu Oya warning extended 48 hours to 6am Monday May 25; Mellawagedara temporary bridge collapsed; Katunayake-Minuwangoda road blocked at Naikanda.
Lifestyle
Kalu Ganga Reaches Minor Flood Level at Millakanda, Eight Kalutara Divisions on Alert
Kalu Ganga rose to minor flood level at Millakanda and is approaching danger marks at Ellagawa and Putupawula. Houses inundated in Ingiriya Nambapana area.
Lifestyle
2,388 dansals registered islandwide for Vesak so far, PHI Union says
The PHI Union has registered 2,388 Vesak dansals islandwide through MOH offices since early May, with registration set to continue until May 29.
Lifestyle
Amber Warning: Heavy Rain Above 100mm Forecast for 8 Districts
Met Department issues Amber-level advisory for Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-Western provinces plus Galle, warning of thundershowers above 100mm.
Lifestyle
DMT urges motorists to collect 100,000 unclaimed number plates before June 30
Nearly 100,000 printed number plates from 2023 and 2024 remain unclaimed at Narahenpita and district offices, DMT says, with a June 30 collection deadline.
Lifestyle
Three-month-old infant killed in three-wheeler accident on Nittambuwa-Ruwanwella road
An infant died at Avissawella Hospital after a three-wheeler overturned in Gonagala on the Nittambuwa-Ruwanwella road; Ruwanwella Police arrested the driver.
Lifestyle
Monsoon floods submerge Colombo–Avissawella road, divert six BIA flights to Mattala
Kelani and Kalu Ganga basins on flood warning; Pambegama records 336.5mm of rain in 24 hours as airport diversions hit Western Province.
Lifestyle
NBRO Landslide Alerts and Aththanagalu Oya Flood Warning as Monsoon Brings 200mm Rains
Gampaha, Kalutara and Ratnapura on Amber alert; Irrigation Department warns nine DS divisions of flooding as SW monsoon establishes over the island.
Lifestyle
One in Three Sri Lankans Has High Blood Pressure, Health Ministry Says
Hypertension-related illnesses account for nearly 34% of deaths; 63.9% of patients receive no treatment, NCD Unit Director Dr. Shreeni Alahapperuma warns.
Lifestyle
Polonnaruwa hospital performs Sri Lanka's first pediatric kidney transplant outside a children's hospital
China-Sri Lanka Friendship Nephrology Hospital in Polonnaruwa performed the first pediatric kidney transplant outside a specialist children's hospital on May 7.
Lifestyle
President's Fund to grant scholarships to school-going children of low-income lottery sellers
The President's Fund board has approved monthly scholarships for school-going children of low-income National Lotteries and Development Lotteries sellers.
Lifestyle
Kelani Valley line train services restricted May 23-24 for Kota Road crossing repair
Sri Lanka Railways will close the Kota Road crossing between Baseline and Narahenpita from 9.30am May 23 to 7.30am May 24; no Fort-Narahenpita Sunday service.
Lifestyle
Met Department warns of fairly heavy rain above 50mm as South-West monsoon establishes
Showers expected in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces; seas off Hambantota to Kankesanthurai to turn rough with 30–40 kmph winds.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka ranks fourth globally for family relocation in Remitly's 2026 Immigration Index
Last year's number one slips to fourth behind Spain, China and the US as the index adds new metrics on schooling, childcare and parental leave.
Lifestyle
Government to Lift Fuel and Electricity Restrictions for Vesak Week
PM Secretary Saputhanthri chaired the final Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone meeting at Temple Trees, with fuel and power curbs to be lifted for festival week.
Lifestyle
Police Announce Island-Wide Security Plan for Vesak Week
Sri Lanka Police have announced enhanced patrols, traffic management and strict conduct rules for the Vesak season ahead of Poya on May 30.
Lifestyle
128 Wild Elephant Deaths Recorded in First 4.5 Months of 2026
DWC reports 128 wild elephant deaths through 15 May 2026; 35 human deaths from elephant attacks also recorded over the same period.
Lifestyle
Half of diesel vehicles tested emit harmful black smoke; DMT gives 14 days to fix or face blacklist
About 1,000 vehicles inspected this year; mobile teams in 12 high-usage districts, Emissions Division Director Dasun Janaka Gamage tells NewsFirst.
Lifestyle
Hambantota Elephant Management Reserve an 'urgent national necessity', Patabendi warns
Minister Patabendi declares the proposed Hambantota elephant management reserve a national environmental emergency tied to food security and rural safety.
Lifestyle
Cabinet clears Jaffna University's four-year UK global-health research agreement
University of Jaffna will partner with Birmingham and 11 institutions on a Rs. 173.92mn UK-NIHR project on violence against women and children.
Lifestyle
Health Ministry activates five-point Ebola preparedness plan, calls Sri Lanka 'low-risk'
DGHS Asela Gunawardena says airport surveillance, NIID and MRI readiness and WHO coordination have been stepped up after the DR Congo Bundibugyo outbreak.
Lifestyle
Castle Street Hospital Rejects Social-Media Claims of Gender-Change Procedures on Children
Castle Street Hospital director Dr. Ajith Danthanarayana rejected viral claims the women's hospital performs gender-change procedures on children.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Records 15 Dengue Deaths, Nearly 30,000 Cases in 2026
Health authorities report 15 dengue deaths and 29,589 cases this year, with Western, Southern and Sabaragamuwa provinces hit hardest amid intermittent rain.
Lifestyle
SLBFE to Pay Rs. 10,000 Monthly for Migrant Workers' Children in Registered Daycare
SLBFE will pay Rs. 10,000 a month per child aged 2–13 of overseas workers, channelled to registered daycare centres via District Secretariat offices.
Lifestyle
Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles Banned in State Institutions from May 31
A Public Administration Ministry circular bans the purchase and use of single-use plastic water bottles in all state institutions from May 31.
Lifestyle
South-West Monsoon Begins Establishing Over Sri Lanka, Met Office Warns of Wind and Lightning
South-West monsoon is gradually establishing over Sri Lanka, with showers, thundershowers and strong winds across most provinces and rough seas off the coast.
Lifestyle
Vesak dansal registration made mandatory, Health DG announces
Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena says all Vesak dansals must now be registered, formalising oversight of alms-giving food stations.
Lifestyle
Vietnam pledges USD 50,000 for Colombo Public Library's Vietnamese section
Vietnamese Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam and Colombo Mayor Vraie Cally Balthazaar signed an agreement to renovate the library's Vietnamese collection by 2027.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka awarded WHO certificate for eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission
Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa accepted the Public Health Achievement Certificate from Director-General Tedros at the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva.
Lifestyle
Adverse weather damages 204 houses, affects over 5,200 people in 13 districts
DMC reports 204 partially damaged houses, two deaths and 5,277 people affected as adverse weather continues to disrupt daily life across 14 districts.
Lifestyle
Govt to compensate weather-damaged crops via Agrarian Insurance Board, two-week reporting window
Deputy Minister Namal Karunaratne said affected farmers have two weeks to submit damage details; Insurance Board chair pledges swift inspection-based payouts.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka has only four blood cancer specialists, doctors warn
Sri Lanka has only four haemato-oncologists treating thousands of patients, Maharagama Apeksha Hospital doctors warned at a World Blood Cancer Day forum.
Lifestyle
CMC launches school canteen policy banning processed meats, sugary drinks
Colombo Municipal Council's new School Canteen Food Environment Policy bans processed meats, deep-fried foods, sugary drinks and chocolates in CMC schools.
Lifestyle
Police warn of rising water-related deaths, cite negligence and lack of awareness
Police Media Division urged greater caution near rivers and reservoirs after a series of fatal drownings, citing negligence as the main factor.
Lifestyle
Circular tells Vesak Dansal organisers to use yellow flags, not Buddhist flags
Buddhist Affairs Commissioner Asela Madhusankha said a Cabinet-approved circular directs Dansal organisers to use yellow flags instead of Buddhist flags.
Lifestyle
Popular Batticaloa hotel sealed for two weeks after health violations
Batticaloa Magistrate's Court seals a city-centre hotel for two weeks and fines it Rs.50,000 after PHIs found food unfit for consumption; third warning.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka backs Commonwealth cancer plan at Geneva health forum
Health Minister Jayatissa joins Commonwealth Health Coordination Forum on 79th World Health Assembly sidelines to shape joint cancer control plan.
Lifestyle
Dengue cases in 2026 climb to 28,713 as NDCU urges renewed breeding control
National Dengue Control Unit confirms 28,713 cases and 15 deaths so far in 2026 — up from 27,754 cases reported five days earlier.
Lifestyle
Sri Lankan Muslims to celebrate Eid al-Adha on May 28
Colombo Grand Mosque and the Moon Sighting Committee set the Hajj festival on May 28 and Arafat Day on May 27 after the Dhul Hijjah crescent was not sighted.
Lifestyle
Galle bus passenger dies after falling from moving vehicle near Makuluwa
A 26-year-old Galle resident has died after falling from a moving bus near Makuluwa Junction on Friday night; Galle Harbour Police arrest the driver.
Lifestyle
Two brothers from Haputale drown in abandoned Kekirawa quarry
The men, aged 39 and 41, were part of a five-man group bathing in a Samagigama quarry while in Kekirawa for school construction work, police said.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka sets Guinness World Record for longest sensory board at BMICH
Tree House International's 60-metre tactile installation at Merak 2026 was certified the world's longest sensory board, designed to raise autism awareness.
Lifestyle
NILET and Russian Cultural Centre launch A1/A2 Russian-language course in Colombo
Sri Lanka's NILET signs MoU with Russian Cultural Centre to offer internationally recognised A1/A2 Russian programme aligned with SLQF Level III.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka facing 'triple burden' of child malnutrition, Family Health Bureau tells NSF forum
FHB consultant Dr. Hiranya Jayawickrama tells NSF Food Security Forum that undernutrition, micronutrient gaps and child obesity are running in parallel.
Lifestyle
Environment Minister urges plastic-free Vesak; no legal action against users
Minister Dammika Patabendi urges voluntary restraint on plastic and polythene at Vesak dansals and decorations, but rules out enforcement against individuals.
Lifestyle
Three youths drown in Victoria Reservoir near Teldeniya, fourth survivor rescued
Three Werellagama youths died and one was rescued after a group of four went swimming at Victoria Reservoir near Bambaragala on Sunday, Teldeniya Police said.
Lifestyle
Two arrested with leopard skin, unlicensed firearms in Wanathawilluwa
Wildlife officers seize a leopard skin, two unlicensed 12-bore firearms and ammunition from a coconut estate house in Wanathawilluwa; suspects face court.
Lifestyle
Only 16 of 92 Colombo Floating Market Shops Still Operating, UDA Inspection Finds
UDA inspectors found just 16 of 92 shops at the Colombo Floating Market still operating, with the 2014 Beira Lake complex left in significant disrepair.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka joins global 'Respire' initiative to strengthen smoking cessation
Deputy Health Minister Hansaka Wijemuni launches Sri Lanka's role in the Respire global initiative; five universities back the tobacco-control push.
Lifestyle
Father and daughter killed in wild elephant attack at Wilgamuwa
A 56-year-old father and his 23-year-old daughter were killed in a wild elephant attack at Moragaha Ulpatha in Wilgamuwa, Matale, on the morning of May 15.
Lifestyle
KOICA and UN-Habitat Hand Over $5.5M Water and Sanitation Facilities to Nuwara Eliya
KOICA and UN-Habitat concluded a four-year $5.5 million water, sanitation and resilience project in Nuwara Eliya and Badulla, benefiting 106,000 people.
Lifestyle
Sancharaka Udawa 2026 opens at BMICH with focus on tourism revival
Sri Lanka's flagship travel and tourism trade exhibition opened at BMICH on Friday, with hundreds of stakeholders pushing to rebuild the visitor economy.
Lifestyle
All schools in Hatton Education Zone closed Friday over heavy rain
The Zonal Director of Education closed all schools in the Hatton Education Zone for Friday as the plantation belt sits inside a Met red warning and NBRO alerts.
Lifestyle
Irrigation Dept warns of flood risk along Attanagalu Oya and Uruwal Oya basins
Irrigation Department warns of minor flooding in low-lying areas of six Gampaha-district divisional secretariats after heavy rainfall lifts water levels.
Lifestyle
Low-pressure system off Sri Lanka triggers NBRO Level 2 landslide warnings for 11 districts
Met Department says the low-pressure area northeast of Sri Lanka will weaken in 36-48 hours; NBRO issues Level 2 landslide alerts as one death is reported.
Lifestyle
NBRO Issues Level 2 Landslide Warnings for Galle, Kalutara and Ratnapura
National Building Research Organisation places Neluwa, six Kalutara DS divisions, Alawwa, Pelmadulla and Ratnapura on Level 2 alert through 4pm Friday.
Lifestyle
Met Department issues Red Alert as 37 reservoirs overflow; Attanagalu and Ma Oya flooding warned
Met Department has issued a Red Alert for 150mm+ rainfall across four provinces as 37 reservoirs spill; Attanagalu Oya and Ma Oya flood risks warned.
Lifestyle
Deduru Oya, Inginimitiya, Tabbowa spill gates opened as heavy rain pushes reservoirs past capacity
Spill gates at Deduru Oya, Inginimitiya and Tabbowa released over 10,000 cubic feet per second downstream Thursday as Wimalasurendra also began overflowing.
Lifestyle
33 Reservoirs Spilling as Heavy Rains Pound Sri Lanka, Irrigation Dept Warns
Irrigation Department says 16 major and 17 medium-scale reservoirs are spilling as heavy rains pound Sri Lanka, with Rajanganaya discharging 14,000 cfs.
Lifestyle
Amber rain advisory issued as Kesbewa records 204mm in 22 hours
Met Department issues Amber alert for 200mm-plus rain in Western and Sabaragamuwa as a low-pressure system parks near Sri Lanka and Kesbewa logs 204mm.
Lifestyle
One Dead in Batticaloa as Adverse Weather Affects 203 People Across Four Districts
DMC reports first weather-related death of the cycle in Koralepatthu South Batticaloa; 17 evacuated in Ratnapura, 39 houses partially damaged.
Lifestyle
CEA warns public against plastic, polythene for Vesak decorations and Dansal
Central Environmental Authority warns several plastic and polythene items used for Vesak are banned under gazette regulations and could result in legal action.
Lifestyle
Red Warning Issued as Kalu and Gin Rivers Rise; Galle, Colombo, Kandy Flooded
Met Department issues Red Warning as Kalu and Gin rivers rise; 16 major and 17 medium reservoirs spilling; landslide alerts cover 11 districts.
Lifestyle
Heavy rain disrupts transport: Puttalam line cut at Chilaw, Welipenna interchange flooded
Puttalam train services cut at Chilaw after Thilladi flooding; Southern Expressway entry at Welipenna closed to light vehicles as rains inundate routes.
Lifestyle
Rainwater Harvesting Pilot Targets 100 State Institutions in Colombo District
Minister Susil Ranasinghe announces pilot to install rainwater harvesting systems at 100 state institutions in Colombo for garden and vehicle washing use.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka records 68 filariasis cases in 2025, half among Indian workers
Anti Filariasis Campaign Director Dr Prasanga Serasinghe says 34 local patients and 34 Indian nationals were diagnosed in 2025; 2030 elimination target holds.
Lifestyle
Dengue cases climb to 27,754 across all 25 districts; PHIs given enforcement powers
Dengue cases now reported from all 25 districts; PHIs may take legal action against premises that repeatedly harbour mosquito breeding, the NDCU said.
Lifestyle
Deniyaya schools to reopen Tuesday after flu outbreak; health-safe environment restored
Four Deniyaya Education Zone schools closed last Thursday after about 56 students fell ill will reopen on May 13, Southern Province education officials say.
Lifestyle
Low-pressure area near Sri Lanka triggers 100mm+ rain alert across five provinces
Met Department warns of 100mm+ falls in five provinces and Trincomalee on May 12 as the persistent low-pressure system continues for several more days.
Lifestyle
Met Department forecasts near-normal southwest monsoon for Sri Lanka
Met Department's June–September 2026 outlook forecasts near-normal rainfall, with slightly below-normal totals in NW, Sabaragamuwa, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka tourist arrivals reach 46,606 in May with India accounting for 40%
SLTDA data shows 46,606 tourists in May so far, with India contributing 18,533. Year-to-date 2026 arrivals stand at 922,883.
Lifestyle
Fire at Dam Street commercial building contained after 10 engines, 30 firefighters deployed
Fire and Rescue Services Department says blaze near Dam Street Police Station, Colombo, has been contained; cause and damage not yet disclosed.
Lifestyle
Specialist team confirms Deniyaya water sources unsafe as 50 infected with viral fever
Specialist doctors confirmed Deniyaya water sources are unsafe after 50 patients contracted a spreading viral fever, prompting school closures on May 11–12.
Lifestyle
84% of Sri Lankans willing to donate eyes, Health Ministry says
National Eye Bank survey shows 84% public willingness to donate corneas, with 17,000 corneas received and 12,000 transplants performed over 15 years.
Lifestyle
Flooding displaces families across 14 Grama Niladhari divisions in Galewela
Heavy rainfall floods 14 GN divisions in the Galewela Divisional Secretariat area as the Bay of Bengal low-pressure system continues to dump rain across Matale.
Lifestyle
Ven. Gomagoda Sri Rathanasara Nayaka Thero passes away at 81
The Asgiriya Chapter senior prelate Ven. Gomagoda Sri Rathanasara Nayaka Thero has passed away at 81, with final rites in Kandy this afternoon.
Lifestyle
Red lightning alert for 16 districts; NBRO issues landslide warnings in 5 districts
Met Department warns of severe lightning until 11.30 pm on May 11; NBRO Level 1 landslide alerts cover DSDs in five districts including Badulla and Monaragala.
Lifestyle
Spill gates open at 18 reservoirs as heavy rain intensifies
Twelve major and six medium-scale reservoirs are now releasing water as heavy rainfall continues. NBRO has issued landslide warnings for Badulla and Monaragala.
Lifestyle
Udawalawa Reservoir yields 35,000 kg fish harvest after heavy rains
Over 35,000 kg of fish worth Rs. 10.9 million were harvested at Udawalawa Reservoir on May 9-10 as the Walawe River swelled from upper-catchment rainfall.
Lifestyle
Fire damages around 20 shops at Manning Market in Peliyagoda
A fire at the Manning Market in Peliyagoda damaged about 20 shops on Sunday morning before being brought under control by four fire engines.
Lifestyle
Mawanella teenager drowns while bathing in Ma Oya
A 15-year-old Mawanella resident drowned while bathing in the Ma Oya river with another child on Sunday; police are investigating the incident.
Lifestyle
Motorcyclist, 27, killed near Bathgamgoda Junction on Ratnapura–Balangoda road
A 27-year-old motorcyclist died after losing control near Bathgamgoda Junction on the Ratnapura–Balangoda road and hitting an electricity pole, police said.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka has sent over a quarter of donated corneas abroad, Eye Bank says
Sri Lanka's National Eye Bank has collected over 17,000 corneas in 15 years, sending 4,000–4,500 abroad to patients in Singapore, South Africa and Asia.
Lifestyle
Navy rescues injured fisherman 81 nautical miles off south coast
The Sri Lanka Navy coordinated with a merchant vessel and MRCC Colombo to bring an injured crew member ashore from a Galle-based trawler on May 8.
Lifestyle
NBRO issues landslide warnings for Badulla and Monaragala as heavy rain continues
The NBRO has issued early landslide warnings for Passara, Badalkumbura and Wellawaya divisional secretariat areas as heavy rain continues across Sri Lanka.
Lifestyle
Police trace three women in viral unsafe motorcycle video; rider faces court
Sri Lanka Police traced a 23-year-old unlicensed rider and two passengers from a viral motorcycle video; the rider faces Wellawaya Magistrate Court on May 11.
Lifestyle
Rotary Club of Colombo Centennial donates 100 intraocular lenses for free eye surgeries
The Rotary Club of Colombo Centennial handed over 100 intraocular lenses to the Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society under its 'Gift of Sight' project.
Lifestyle
Ten injured in Southern Expressway crash near Beliatta–Kasagala section
A car carrying CEB employees from Panadura to Kataragama rear-ended a lorry near the 154th milestone; all ten were taken to Tangalle Base Hospital.
Lifestyle
Heavy rainfall floods Wellawaya–Colombo main road, disrupting traffic
Heavy rain flooded sections of the Wellawaya–Colombo main road on the night of May 10, blocking traffic near the Gangaramaya Temple area and Ethiliwewa.
Lifestyle
Yal Devi Express to resume Colombo–Kankesanthurai services from Monday
Sri Lanka Railways will restart the Yal Devi Express between Colombo Fort and Kankesanthurai from May 11, running three days a week with AC first-class seats.
Lifestyle
Batticaloa restaurant fined Rs. 500,000 for selling water bottle above MRP
A Batticaloa restaurant has been fined Rs. 500,000 by the Magistrate's Court after the CAA found it selling a Rs. 70 water bottle for Rs. 100.
Lifestyle
Deniyaya fever traced to digestive-tract virus in contaminated water — Health officials
The school fever outbreak in Deniyaya has been traced to a group of digestive-tract viruses spread through contaminated water or food, health officials say.
Lifestyle
GMOA confirms Deniyaya outbreak as viral meningitis; 45–50 children hospitalised
GMOA says 45–50 children at Deniyaya Base Hospital are showing symptoms consistent with viral meningitis spread mainly through contaminated water.
Lifestyle
Fire breaks out at Jaffna Teaching Hospital medical warehouse
A fire broke out in the medical warehouse of Jaffna Teaching Hospital early Friday and was extinguished by the Jaffna fire brigade, hospital staff and police.
Lifestyle
Water supply suspended in Kaduwela and surrounding areas after main line breakdown
NWSDB has suspended water supply to Kaduwela and eight nearby areas from 7:30pm Saturday until 1pm Sunday after a sudden breakdown in the Ambathale main line.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka–India ferry stranded at sea after engine failure off Nagapattinam
A KKS–Nagapattinam passenger ferry carrying 144 people was stranded for hours off the Tamil Nadu coast after engine trouble; all on board were reported safe.
Lifestyle
Lal Kantha confirms no fertilizer shortage for Yala; Maha imports approved
Agriculture Minister Lal Kantha said Yala fertilizer stocks are sufficient, Cabinet has approved Maha imports, and private-sector distribution will resume.
Lifestyle
Mawanella man, 86, killed by his own car during driving lesson; teen, 15, arrested
An 86-year-old Mawanella man died after being run over by his own car during an alleged driving lesson with a 15-year-old boy, who has been taken into custody.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Detects 45 to 60 New Thalassemia Cases Among Children Annually
Health Ministry says 2,500 patients are registered nationwide; doctors urge pre-marital screening as primary prevention strategy.
Lifestyle
Suspect fined Rs. 150,000 in Kotte for selling protected deer and sambhur antlers
A Kotte suspect was fined Rs. 150,000 for trying to sell deer and sambhur antlers in a raid backed by Sri Lanka Air Force intelligence, wildlife officers said.
Lifestyle
AKD joins Vietnam's Tô Lâm at Ho Chi Minh tribute, Colombo Public Library
Presidents Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Tô Lâm laid floral tributes at the Ho Chi Minh statue and launched the expansion of the Viet Nam–Ho Chi Minh Space.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka opens Ekala construction-waste recycling centre under Clean Sri Lanka programme
A 200 tonnes-per-hour construction and demolition waste recycling centre opened at Ekala Industrial Zone, the first of its kind under Clean Sri Lanka.
Lifestyle
Gammadda launches Phase 3 of Ditwah rebuild with vocational training in Nuwara Eliya
Phase 3 of the Gammadda Rebuild Programme launched in Nuwara Eliya with vocational training for masons, carpenters and plumbers from cyclone-hit communities.
Lifestyle
Met Department warns of 100mm rainfall, severe lightning and Caution-level heat
Heavy rain above 100mm in five provinces, red lightning alerts in 21 districts and Caution-level heat in five provinces and two districts.
Lifestyle
UN research vessel Dr. Fridtjof Nansen completes fifth marine survey of Sri Lankan waters
FAO-Norway vessel maps fish stocks, microplastic pollution and underutilised species; first full survey in Sri Lanka since 2018.
Lifestyle
Several homes inundated in Wellawaya as Kirindi Oya overflows
Heavy rainfall in the Wellawaya catchment caused the Kirindi Oya to overflow on Friday, inundating homes; the Monaragala DMU urged residents to be vigilant.
Lifestyle
Government opens new child daycare centre in Battaramulla
A new state daycare centre, supplied by the All-China Women's Federation, opened at Govijana Mandiraya in Battaramulla for Parliament and Agriculture staff.
Lifestyle
Dehiwala Zoo Invites Public to Name Two Lion Cubs
Visitors can suggest names for the male and female cubs by dropping entries into a box at the zoo, with winners chosen by lottery.
Lifestyle
Four Deniyaya schools closed for two days as influenza-like virus spreads
The Southern Provincial Governor's Office has ordered four schools in the Deniyaya zone closed on May 7-8 to contain a viral disease similar to influenza.
Lifestyle
PM Harini outlines higher education overhaul to match school reform programme
An expert committee has spent six months identifying issues, the first-degree intake stays at current levels, and new courses launch at Ruhuna and Peradeniya.
Lifestyle
Met Department forecasts rainfall above 75mm in five provinces
Showery conditions to persist as a low-level atmospheric disturbance lingers near Sri Lanka; thundershowers expected at most places after 1 pm Thursday.
Lifestyle
Nuwara Eliya city centre buried in uncollected waste after April season
Municipal Council that ran the April Avurudu festivities has yet to clear food waste and stall debris; commissioner Wijekoon Bandara unreachable for comment.
Lifestyle
President's Fund and Janashakthi Foundation tie up to top up children's medical bills
Janashakthi will match President's Fund payouts on approved children's treatments from May 15, narrowing the gap to actual treatment costs.
Lifestyle
Rathugala indigenous leader Suda Wannila Aththo dies aged 62
Danigala Maha Bandalage Suda Wannila Aththo, head of the Vedda village in Madulla, died at the Welisara Chest Hospital while receiving treatment.
Lifestyle
Fried rice, biryani and nasi goreng prices to rise Rs.25 from midnight
All Ceylon Restaurant Owners' Association cites rising input costs after Wednesday's LAUGFS gas hike.
Lifestyle
Second Round of Grade Six Scholarship Appeals Opens May 8
Parents and guardians can submit online appeals for up to three schools at moe.gov.lk between May 8 and May 29, the Education Ministry has confirmed.
Lifestyle
Two Tajik nationals arrested in Galle with US$5,200 in counterfeit notes
Police arrested two Tajikistan nationals in Galle with $5,200 in fake dollars after they tried to rent motorcycles in Unawatuna using the counterfeit currency.
Lifestyle
UNICEF welcomes Cabinet adoption of Global Charter for Child Care Reforms
UN body says 30% drop in institutional care since 2018 and 2,000 family reunifications show progress, with 8,000 still in residential care needing alternatives.
Lifestyle
Vehicles ignoring smoke emission orders to be blacklisted: DMT
Department of Motor Traffic warns owners who skip maintenance directives could face revenue licence delays as mobile testing units sweep Kandy until May 8.
Lifestyle
Dengue eradication drive launched in 43 high-risk MoH divisions; cases climb to 26,071
National Dengue Control Unit's targeted programme begins as caseload rises by over 200 in days; 13 deaths recorded so far this year.
Lifestyle
Polonnaruwa police arrest fake doctor who impersonated maternity ward physician
59-year-old with prior arrests in four districts caught with stethoscope, uniform and forged ID after impersonating a Hingurakgoda Hospital doctor.
Lifestyle
PM Harini sets 2027 timeline for preschool education reforms
Education Minister tells Parliament a new Early Childhood Curriculum Framework, teachers' guide and provincial training will roll out before full reform.
Lifestyle
Heavy showers above 100mm forecast as ITCZ influence strengthens
Met Department warns of heavy falls above 100mm in Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva and North Central provinces, with showers at most places after 1pm Wednesday.
Lifestyle
Severe lightning red alert issued for 14 districts until 11.30pm
Department of Meteorology warns of thundershowers with severe lightning across Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva, North-Central and North-Western provinces from 1pm.
Lifestyle
Education Ministry warns against fraud agents in foreign scholarship scheme
Phase 2 applications open for 200 top A/L students; Ministry says no private agents are authorised and threatens legal action against misrepresentation.
Lifestyle
State university admissions to begin first week of September; 42,937 to enter
PM Amarasuriya tells Parliament cut-offs and registration lists will reach universities by August 31; intake levels held steady with two new degree programmes.
Lifestyle
Father, 63, arrested over daughter's killing in Kalutara land dispute
Police say a 63-year-old man assaulted his 35-year-old daughter with an iron rod in Bosiripura, Kalutara North, after a long-running family land dispute.
Lifestyle
First batch of 325 Sri Lankan Hajj pilgrims arrives in Jeddah
Sri Lanka Ambassador Ameer Ajwad received the first 325 Hajj pilgrims at King Abdulaziz International Airport on May 2; total 2026 quota stands at 3,500.
Lifestyle
Rain above 50mm expected as ITCZ shifts over Sri Lanka
Met Department forecasts heavy showers above 50mm in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and Eastern provinces with island-wide rainfall increasing from Wednesday.
Lifestyle
Man arrested after firing shots into the air at Kudawella Fisheries Harbour
Police take a suspect into custody along with the firearm at the Tangalle harbour after the shooting; no injuries reported.
Lifestyle
Met Department warns low-level atmospheric disturbance may develop near Sri Lanka
Department of Meteorology says ITCZ activity and a low-level disturbance are likely to develop near the island, with rainfall set to increase from Wednesday.
Lifestyle
13 schoolchildren and driver injured as van plunges into 10-foot precipice in Nawalapitiya
A school van overturned into a 10-foot precipice near Nawalapitiya on May 5, injuring 13 students and the driver, all hospitalised.
Lifestyle
PET scans resume at government hospitals after 39-day FDG shortage
PET scan registration at state hospitals has restarted after the FDG tracer arrived, ending a 39-day halt that left cancer patients without public access.
Lifestyle
Two men killed in early-morning Jaffna motorcycle crash
A 22-year-old rider and 24-year-old pillion from Nelliyadi died after their motorcycle crashed into a wall on the Point Pedro–Jaffna road in Navatkadu.
Lifestyle
Four shops fined for selling rice above MRP across Colombo, Kaduwela and Badulla
Wellawatte supermarket hit with Rs. 500,000 fine; three more shops in Atampitiya, Navagamuwa and Kothalawala fined Rs. 100,000 each as CAA widens net.
Lifestyle
Body of woman, 41, found in Eheliyagoda with cut injuries
Police are searching for suspects after a 41-year-old Kuruwita resident was found dead in Bawila, Eheliyagoda, with sharp cut injuries to the neck.
Lifestyle
Young monk arrested with 10 grams of Ice hidden in mobile phone case
Rangala Police arrest a 23-year-old Buddhist monk in Hurikaduwa with 10 grams of crystal methamphetamine concealed inside the back cover of his phone.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka beer output up 5%, liquor up 17% as alcohol prices stay flat
ADIC says 2025 alcohol production rose with no price revision since early 2024, warning health costs may outweigh excise gains.
Lifestyle
Two 20-Year-Olds Killed After Motorcycle Hits Wall in Athurugiriya
Two 20-year-old men died after their motorcycle veered off the Athurugiriya–Kottawa road and crashed into a wall early Sunday.
Lifestyle
Train services disrupted after derailment at Dematagoda station
Railway Department says train movement on the Colombo Fort–Kalutara South and Rambukkana lines has been disrupted following a Monday derailment at Dematagoda.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka dengue cases climb to 25,846; 12 deaths include two children
NDCU confirms 25,846 dengue cases islandwide YTD 2026; 12 deaths include two children from Colombo and Ratnapura. Special programmes in three districts.
Lifestyle
El Niño expected to develop during southwest monsoon — Met. Department
Met Department DG Athula Karunanayake says strengthening El Niño from May will reduce southwest monsoon rainfall, with wind patterns shifting after May 15.
Lifestyle
Eravur motorcyclist remanded after viral video of helmet-less riding
A 24-year-old from Meerakeni was arrested by Eravur Police after a video showed him riding recklessly with two pillion passengers, none wearing helmets.
Lifestyle
Man, 36, Killed in Beer-Bottle Attack After Drinking Dispute in Jaffna
A 36-year-old man died after being assaulted with a beer bottle during a drinking dispute in Gurunagar; a 42-year-old suspect has been arrested.
Lifestyle
Kandy National Hospital supervisor shot in Katugastota pre-dawn attack
A 28-year-old janitorial supervisor at Kandy National Hospital was shot in the Gohagoda area of Katugastota around 2.30am Monday. Suspects unidentified.
Lifestyle
14-Year-Old Girl Killed in Bus–Motorcycle Crash in Kuda Oya
A 14-year-old girl from Ethiliwewa died after a bus collided with the motorcycle she was riding pillion on near Kuda Oya on Sunday morning.
Lifestyle
Two suspects linked to underworld 'Loku Pattie' arrested with pistol and ICE in Balapitiya
Ahungalla Police arrested two associates of underworld figure 'Loku Pattie' in Balapitiya with a foreign pistol, 16 rounds and 11.5g of crystal meth.
Lifestyle
Sharks International 2026 opens in Colombo as global elasmobranch population crashes
World's largest shark and ray conservation conference begins May 4 amid warnings that nearly one-third of species globally face extinction.
Lifestyle
Scientists Warn Sri Lankan Households Discard 1.6 Million Tonnes of Food a Year
An NSF forum heard that Sri Lankan households waste 1.6 million tonnes of food annually, with Colombo restaurants discarding 110 tonnes a day.
Lifestyle
Wattala: Heroin and Ice Found Hidden in Sound Equipment, One Arrested
PNB seized over a kilogram each of heroin and ice, plus 4,910 pills, hidden in sound amplification equipment at a Wattala commercial premises.
Lifestyle
Drug suspect shot in leg after Galgamuwa police-station escape attempt
Officers opened fire as two handcuffed suspects bolted from the station gate; a 32-year-old was hit below the knee and is hospitalised in Kurunegala.
Lifestyle
Inmate Shot at Galle Prison During Escape Attempt
An inmate was shot in the left shoulder after prison officers opened fire to stop two detainees attempting to escape from Galle Prison on Sunday evening.
Lifestyle
Man, 55, missing after being swept away at Katukurunda Beach
Police are searching for a 55-year-old man dragged out to sea by a strong wave while bathing at Katukurunda Beach in Kalutara on Sunday evening.
Lifestyle
Met. Dept. issues severe-lightning warning for May 3 across multiple provinces
Thundershowers with severe lightning forecast through 11.30 pm in five provinces and seven districts; Director Karunanayake warns of strong strikes.
Lifestyle
Lightning strike kills 26-year-old woman at Habaraduwa, garment co-worker injured
A 26-year-old garment worker died after lightning struck her Kokwatta home in Habaraduwa early Sunday; a second woman was transferred to Karapitiya hospital.
Lifestyle
Two Arrested in Pannipitiya with Heroin, ICE and Kush
Walana Anti-Corruption officers arrested two men in Pannipitiya with 120g of heroin, 248g of methamphetamine and 360g of Kush in a single raid.
Lifestyle
School transport fares set to rise after midnight diesel hike
All-Island School Children Transportation Association says a fare increase is now unavoidable after Auto Diesel rose Rs. 10 a litre from May 3 midnight.
Lifestyle
Buddhist Affairs Department Confirms Vesak Poya Will Be Observed on May 30
Buddhist Affairs confirms Vesak Full Moon Poya Day falls on May 30 following a request from the three Nikayas' Mahanayake Theros.
Lifestyle
Coast Guard rescued 19 from drowning in April, including 14 foreign tourists
Sri Lanka's Coast Guard rescued 19 people in April including 14 foreign tourists from six countries, lifting its cumulative tally since 2010 to 2,629 lives.
Lifestyle
PHIs to begin Vesak dansal registration Monday May 4 via MOH offices
Public Health Inspectors will begin registering Vesak dansal stalls Monday May 4 through MOH offices islandwide; 1,382 dansals operated for the May 1 Poya.
Lifestyle
Rs. 550 million allocated to restore six archaeological shrines damaged by Cyclone Ditwah
Buddhasasana Ministry to begin work this month on six archaeological shrines hit by Cyclone Ditwah; another 259 sites are under separate restoration tracks.
Lifestyle
Police Charge 4,750 Drug-Impaired Drivers in First Four Months of 2026
DIG W.P.J. Senadheera says enforcement is intensifying with mobile testing labs targeting passenger transport drivers, a sharp rise on prior years.
Lifestyle
Met Department widens heat advisory to 17 districts ahead of May 3
Department of Meteorology issues an Amber-level Caution heat advisory for 17 districts on May 3, expanding from the 13-district warning issued in late April.
Lifestyle
One Killed, Three Injured in Head-On Motorcycle Collision at Horowpathana
A 64-year-old from Kapugollewa died after two motorcycles collided at the 134th km post on the Puttalam–Trincomalee Road; three others were injured.
Lifestyle
STF arrests man with plastic pistol at Kilinochchi May Day rally
A 25-year-old Kilinochchi resident was taken into custody for carrying a plastic replica firearm in a crowd at Depot Junction during the May 1 demonstration.
Lifestyle
Army Engineer Killed in Murikandy Train Accident Buried with Military Honours
Lance Corporal A.P. Mariyalujisan of the 12(V) Engineer Services Regiment was buried in Kilinochchi after dying of injuries from a Murikandy train accident.
Lifestyle
Police arrest 22 youths over reckless motorcycle stunt show near Malabe university
Kaduwela Police arrested 22 youths who used a WhatsApp group to coordinate a motorcycle stunt show on Chandrika Kumaratunga Mawatha; court appearance May 5.
Lifestyle
NCC launches Clean Sri Lanka drug-prevention pilot for schoolchildren
The National Cadet Corps has rolled out a drug-prevention training pilot for officers in the Western Province under the wider Clean Sri Lanka national drive.
Lifestyle
New York Times spotlights Sri Lanka's Brief Garden in artists' favourite gardens feature
The NYT T Magazine has featured Bevis Bawa's Brief Garden in Beruwala in a global roundup of gardens loved by artists, citing its design and artistic legacy.
Lifestyle
Sarvanna Relics Sent from Sri Lanka for Sacred Exposition in Texas
Sarvanna relics from Neelagiri Maha Seya and Kesha Dhatu from Gangaramaya opened for veneration at the Huong Dao Vipassana Center in Texas through May 10.
Lifestyle
Government Issues Vesak 2026 Guidelines to Curb Inappropriate Decorations
Buddhasasana Deputy Minister Gamagedara Dissanayake says rules now bar non-traditional displays after social media row over the recent New Year season.
Lifestyle
Central Expressway Rambukkana–Galagedara section to break ground in May
Construction of the 19km Rambukkana–Galagedara section of the Central Expressway will begin by the end of May, the Transport and Highways Ministry says.
Lifestyle
First group of 325 Sri Lankan Hajj pilgrims departs for Mecca
The first batch of 325 Sri Lankan Hajj pilgrims left BIA for Saudi Arabia on Friday night, opening the 2026 pilgrimage season; total quota stands at 3,500.
Lifestyle
Police launch probe into Kalutara IRD fire; data systems unaffected
Police are investigating the Thursday-night fire at the Kalutara Inland Revenue office; the IRD confirms tax data and central systems were not affected.
Lifestyle
Five remanded over alleged assault on children at Kappetipola certified school
Welimada Police arrested staff at the Kappetipola certified boys' school after children reported being beaten with sticks; magistrate ordered 14-day remand.
Lifestyle
Container truck helper killed in Nawalapitiya reversing accident
A 26-year-old from Galagedara died after a container truck reversed into a wall; the driver has been arrested for the Nawalapitiya Magistrate.
Lifestyle
Southern Expressway Matara-Bound Lane Cut to Single Lane for Repairs
Police restrict traffic on two stretches between Gelanigama and Dodangoda; both directions diverted onto the Colombo-bound carriageway.
Lifestyle
NWSDB taps large groundwater source in Urubokka, easing Matara drinking water shortage
The new source at Mananketiya could relieve more than 50,000 residents across the Pasgoda Pradeshiya Sabha area whose wells were running dry.
Lifestyle
Chinese National Arrested at Colombo Casino Over $9,900 Mid-Flight Theft
Airport Police traced the suspect via CCTV and a hired taxi after a Russian doctor reported his cash stolen on a flight from Abu Dhabi to BIA.
Lifestyle
Galle Police arrest international-school teacher for spraying red ink on schoolgirls
Sarewantukade Junction CCTV footage shows the 32-year-old Kotte resident defacing white school uniforms; Children and Women's Bureau leading the case.
Lifestyle
Matara Supermarket Fined Rs. 100,000 for Selling Water Above MRP
The Matara Magistrate's Court fined a supermarket Rs. 100,000 after CAA officers found it pricing bottled water above the Rs. 100 MRP.
Lifestyle
Moringa seeds remove 98.5% of PVC microplastics from drinking water, study finds
Brazil-UK research shows extracts from the South Asian 'miracle tree' rival aluminium sulphate at filtering plastic particles in small-community use.
Lifestyle
NATA proposes tobacco-free Generation Alpha for Sri Lankans born after 2010
NATA's concept paper to Health Minister Jayatissa would deny tobacco access to anyone born from 2010, citing 22,000 SL deaths a year from tobacco and alcohol.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka records 108 wild elephant deaths in first four months of 2026
Department of Wildlife Conservation says human-elephant conflict has killed 143 people and elephants combined; gunshots and electrocution top causes.
Lifestyle
Caution-Level Heat Advisory Issued for 13 Districts on April 30
The Department of Meteorology has flagged caution-level heat for 13 districts across the North-Central, Eastern and Sabaragamuwa provinces on Thursday.
Lifestyle
Central Province Falls to 8th in 2025 A/L Rankings, Second from Bottom
Central Province ranks 8th in 2025 A/L results with only North Central below; education official blames declining school attendance amid private tuition pull.
Lifestyle
Colombo mall food court fined Rs. 500,000 for overcharging bottled water
Maligakanda Magistrate's Court fines a Colombo 04 shopping mall food court restaurant Rs. 500,000 after a CAA decoy bought a 500ml water bottle for Rs. 100.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka to launch electric trains on three Colombo suburban lines by early 2027
Electric train services on the Kelani Valley, Main and Coastal lines are scheduled to begin early next year under the Colombo Suburban Railway Project.
Lifestyle
Dambulla restaurant fined Rs. 510,000 for selling expired water above MRP
Dambulla Magistrate's Court fined a restaurant Rs. 510,000 for selling water expired on March 15 at Rs. 120 against an MRP of Rs. 80, after a CAA raid.
Lifestyle
Bus Falls 25 Feet Into Precipice on Hatton–Dickoya Road, One Killed
A bus on the Dayagama–Hatton route plunged 25 feet into a precipice Wednesday afternoon, killing one and injuring around 20 including school students.
Lifestyle
Two Kegalle Hotel Managers Arrested Over Illegal Deer Mounts
Wildlife officers arrested two hotel managers in Kegalle district after deer skulls and antler mounts were found displayed at their establishments.
Lifestyle
India-Funded Maho–Anuradhapura Signal Modernisation to Complete by October, Trains to Reach 100 km/h
The Department of Railways says the modern signal system on the Maho–Anuradhapura line, funded by the Government of India, will be complete by October 2026.
Lifestyle
Publisher Deshabandu Sirisumana Godage, Founder of Godage Publications, Dies at 89
Sirisumana Godage, who built one of Sri Lanka's largest publishing houses and won 38 consecutive State Awards, has died at a Colombo hospital aged 89.
Lifestyle
Walk for Peace Concludes at Gangaramaya; Vietnamese Monk Delegation Departs
President Dissanayake presented a Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi sapling to Venerable Pannyakara Thero, who has now left Sri Lanka via Istanbul for the United States.
Lifestyle
34 Schoolchildren Hospitalised in Bogawantalawa Bus Accident
A private bus carrying students from Ranikadu to schools in Bogawantalawa was involved in an accident on Tuesday morning, leaving 34 children hospitalised.
Lifestyle
Cabinet Approves Micro-Credentials Framework With Commonwealth of Learning
Sri Lanka to draft a National Policy on Micro-Credentials with Commonwealth of Learning to align local qualifications with global standards.
Lifestyle
Court of Appeal Orders Wildlife DG to Explain Action on Human-Elephant Conflict
Court of Appeal directed the Wildlife Conservation DG to appear in person and explain steps taken on illegal electric fences and human-elephant conflict.
Lifestyle
'Ehi Passiko' Peace Walk Concludes Today With State Ceremony at Independence Square
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will preside over the state ceremony at Independence Square at 4 p.m., before the procession moves to Gangaramaya Temple.
Lifestyle
Elephant 'Sujeewa' Death in State Custody Sparks Demands for Wildlife Crime Probe
Conservationists call for a CID inquiry after Sujeewa, an elephant under state custody since 2016, dies in suspicious circumstances.
Lifestyle
Four Arrested in Galewela With Deer Antlers, Protected Conchs
Four arrested in Aluthwewa, Galewela for possession of 20 protected Smooth Spider Conchs, deer antlers and other items in joint Air Force-wildlife operation.
Lifestyle
Government Studies Cable Car at Sri Pada and Other Sites in Tourism Push
Tourism Task Force under Vijitha Herath weighs cable cars for Adam's Peak, Kikiliyamana and Ella; visa-free for 40 countries set for May 25 launch.
Lifestyle
First Cyclone Ditwah Housing Cheques Distributed to 23 Badulla Families
First Cyclone Ditwah housing cheques were distributed to 23 Badulla families at the Uva Provincial Council, with Rs. 500,000 grants for fully destroyed homes.
Lifestyle
Trains to Kandy Expected by End of 2026 as 92 of 97 Damaged Sites Repaired Post-Ditwah
Deputy Minister Prasanna Gunasena said train services to Kandy will resume by end of 2026, with 92 of 97 cyclone-damaged sites already repaired.
Lifestyle
Severe Lightning Red Alert Issued for 16 Districts on Sunday Afternoon
Met Department issues red alerts to 16 districts and amber alerts to nine for severe lightning and thundershowers expected after 2pm, effective until 11.30pm.
Lifestyle
Locomotive Operators to Strictly Observe Speed Limits, Warn of Train Delays After Sagarika Suspension
Locomotive Operating Engineers' Union says drivers will strictly follow speed limits after Sagarika crew suspension, warning of rail service delays.
Lifestyle
UGC University Admissions Handbook Releases at Midnight; 176,527 Eligible
The UGC will publish the 2025 A/L university admissions handbook at midnight, with 176,527 students qualifying for state universities.
Lifestyle
Two Farmers Killed by Lightning in Vijithapura After Heavy Evening Rain
Two men aged 50 and 49 were struck dead in their paddy fields at Kanakkanmadugama and Puliyankulama after heavy rain Monday evening, Ipalogama police said.
Lifestyle
Wildlife Department, Civil Aviation Authority Sign Mattala Airport MoU
Wildlife Department and Civil Aviation Authority sign MoU to reduce wildlife-related incidents and safeguard biodiversity around Mattala Rajapaksa Airport.
Lifestyle
11 Injured in Two-Bus Collision at Naula; One Critical, Speaker Aids Rescue
Eleven injured, one critically, after a private bus and SLTB bus collided in Naula's Nalanda area. Speaker Wickramaratne assisted in the rescue.
Lifestyle
Education Ministry Issues Vesak Week Circular for Schools and Pirivenas
Schools, colleges of education and Pirivenas to run Vesak Week programmes from May 26 to June 2, in line with the State Vesak Festival in Matara.
Lifestyle
Navy Rescues Injured Fisherman From Deep Sea Off Southern Coast
The Sri Lanka Navy brought ashore an injured fisherman from a multi-day trawler 45 nautical miles south of the island after a serious arm fracture.
Lifestyle
Senior Prof. Nalin Abeysekera Passes Away
Senior Prof. Nalin Abeysekera, a marketing academic and former Dean of the Open University of Sri Lanka, has passed away.
Lifestyle
Over 10,000 Pets Traumatised, Hearing-Impaired by Avurudu Firecrackers
Thousands of cats and dogs were left hearing-impaired by New Year fireworks, the Veterinary Surgeons Association warned, with little progress on regulation.
Lifestyle
ILO Flags Unpaid Care Work as Growth Barrier at Colombo Learning Hub
ILO Country Director Joni Simpson calls unpaid care work 'unseen, undervalued, and underinvested' at South-4-Care hub, citing Sri Lanka's ageing demographics.
Lifestyle
Eight Dead in Repeated Lightning Strikes, Ratnapura Village Demands Protection
Pitakanda residents in Ayagama say the local school, temple and homes have been struck for years; chief monk hospitalised after April 23 strike.
Lifestyle
Veteran Sri Lankan Writer Tennyson Perera Dies at 86
Author of more than 100 books and winner of the State Literary Award for Best Short Story, Tennyson Perera died on April 24 after a long illness.
Lifestyle
WMO Forecasts El Niño Onset by May–July 2026, Citing Rising Pacific Temperatures
World Meteorological Organisation says climate models strongly aligned on El Niño returning by mid-year, with potentially strong intensification.
Lifestyle
Burgher English Literacy Falls From 97.4% to 79.3% Between 2012 and 2024 Census
Burgher English literacy fell 18.1 points in 12 years — the only ethnic group to decline as Sri Lanka's national rate nearly doubled between 2012 and 2024.
Lifestyle
Liquor Shops to Close Three Days in May for May Day and Vesak
Excise Department confirms liquor stores will remain closed on May 1, 30 and 31 covering International Workers' Day and Vesak Full Moon Poya.
Lifestyle
Measles Resurfaces in Sri Lanka After Years of Elimination
Two measles cases detected in Colombo District — the first since January 2025 — with an India lab confirming the strain was imported, Health Ministry says.
Lifestyle
Principals' Service Grade III Exam Postponed Until Further Notice
The Ministry of Education cites unavoidable circumstances for delaying the April 26 limited competitive examination.
Lifestyle
Two Forests Declared Reserves on Day Three of Walk for Peace
Nagahamulayaya (Matale) and Padavigampola (Kegalle) declared protected reserves; Sannas Patra handed to Vietnam's Pannakara Thero at Beligammana Viharaya.
Lifestyle
DMT Plans Personalised Number Plates; 1,185 Opted for Rs. 1 Million Special Plates Since 2023
Motor Traffic officials told COPF the personalised plate system could launch within six months once legacy IT is upgraded.
Lifestyle
University of Hull to Lead £300,000 Colombo Urban Wetlands Research Project
Professor Stewart Mottram leads a British Academy-funded project helping Colombo communities protect and restore the city's wetland ecosystems.
Lifestyle
Severe Lightning Red Alert Issued for 19 Districts Across Sri Lanka
The Met Department issued red alerts for 19 districts and amber for six, warning of thundershowers and severe lightning from 1pm on April 23.
Lifestyle
May 31 Declared Public Holiday for Vesak; May 2 Holiday Revised
Gazette notification declares May 31 a public holiday to follow the State Vesak Festival on May 30; the May 2 holiday has been revised.
Lifestyle
NBRO Issues Level 1 Landslide Warnings for Kurunegala and Ratnapura
Early warnings cover Rideegama in Kurunegala and six Divisional Secretariats in Ratnapura from 4 PM April 23 to 4 PM April 24.
Lifestyle
Life Expectancy Rises as National Immunization Programme Marks Four Decades of Success
Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Palitha Karunapema credits the 1978 National Immunization Programme for eliminating polio, neonatal tetanus and rubella in Sri Lanka.
Lifestyle
Walk for Peace Reaches Kandy Mosque in Interfaith Moment
Buddhist monks leading the Anuradhapura-Kelaniya Walk for Peace visit a mosque in Kandy, drawing a diverse crowd in a symbolic gesture of coexistence.
Lifestyle
Selfie Crowds Disrupt Walk for Peace, Aloka the Peace Dog Falls Ill
Police appeal for public restraint after selfie-seekers caused 'Aloka the Peace Dog' to fall ill and delayed the Dambulla-to-Colombo procession.
Lifestyle
Veteran Journalist Cyril Wimalasurendre Passes Away Aged 96
Cyril Wimalasurendre, veteran Upali Newspapers journalist and 70-year media fixture at The Island and Divaina, has died in Kandy aged 96.
Lifestyle
Heavy Rain Above 75mm Forecast for Western, Central, Sabaragamuwa Today
Department of Meteorology forecasts showers and above 75mm rain in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva and Southern provinces after 1pm today.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau Hosts B2B Roadshow in Dhaka to Court Bangladeshi Visitors
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau held a two-day B2B roadshow in Dhaka targeting a market that sent over 59,000 Bangladeshi travellers in 2025.
Lifestyle
UGC Opens University Admission Applications from April 27
University Grants Commission will accept online undergraduate applications from April 27 with a three-week window, Vice Chairman Prof. Wasantha Liyanage says.
Lifestyle
State Vesak Festival 2026 Set for May 27 to June 2
Cabinet approves Vesak Week from May 27 to June 2; Ministry of Public Administration has issued the official state Vesak celebration programme.
Lifestyle
Nuwara Eliya to Regulate Gregory Lake Boat Services After Capsize
Mayor Upali Wanigasekera says strict safety rules will be imposed on tourist boats and jet skis at Gregory Lake, after a jet ski overturned a boat.
Lifestyle
NPP MP Proposes Ban on Kottu, Fried Rice and Instant Noodles in School Canteens
Gampaha MP Ruwanthilaka Jayakody has filed a parliamentary motion to ban unhealthy foods from school canteens, citing a rising diabetes crisis among children.
Lifestyle
Second School Term Opens Islandwide After Avurudu Break
The second term for all government and government-approved private schools began on Monday after the Sinhala and Tamil New Year holiday.
Lifestyle
'Welcome to Sri Lanka' Documentary Beats BBC, Amazon to Win Top Global TV Award
British filmmaker Mark Julian Edwards' travel documentary took 'Television Broadcast of the Year' at the Inspire Global Media Awards 2026 in London.
Lifestyle
Tourists Rescued After Boat Capsizes at Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya
All passengers pulled to safety by police lifesaving unit after a speeding jet ski struck their boat on Gregory Lake; skipper and jet ski operator arrested.
Lifestyle
Low-Floor Accessible Bus Service Launches from Makumbura on April 21
Sri Lanka's first low-floor priority bus service for wheelchair users launches April 21 from Makumbura under a Rs. 430.7mn Clean Sri Lanka pilot.
Lifestyle
20 Drown During Avurudu Holidays as Father Dies Saving Children in Mihintale
Police confirm 20 drowning deaths during the April 12-16 holiday period, including a man who sacrificed his life to rescue two children.
Lifestyle
Gratiaen Prize 2026: 12 Works Longlisted for Sri Lanka's Premier English Literary Award
The Gratiaen Trust announces a record-entry longlist of 12 works for the 33rd annual prize; shortlist due May 4.
Lifestyle
Father Drowns Saving Children in Mihintale; Teen Dies in Dehiowita River
Two drowning deaths in post-Avurudu weekend outings bring the holiday period toll to at least 22 since April 12, police say.
Lifestyle
Special Buses and Trains Deployed for Post-Avurudu Weekend Return Rush
NTC deploys additional expressway bus services and Railway adds special trains from outstations for the post-New Year return to Colombo.
Lifestyle
Census 2024: PhD Holders Nearly Double as Tertiary Education Surges
Sri Lanka's PhD holders rose from 6,557 to 11,757 between 2012 and 2024, while tertiary education jumped 8 percentage points to 26.2%.
Lifestyle
Education Ministry Rolls Out Grade 1 Curriculum Reforms for 2026
New activity books for Grade 1 Terms II and III being distributed to all schools by April 30 as part of education reforms.
Lifestyle
Red Lightning Alerts Issued for Seven Districts Including Colombo
Meteorology Department warns of severe lightning in Southern Province and four other districts with red alerts valid until 11pm.
Lifestyle
Germany's 'Dream Ship' MS Amadea Arrives With 580 Tourists on World Tour
The 193-metre luxury cruise ship docks in Sri Lanka as part of a 146-day global voyage; rough seas divert it from Galle to Colombo.
Lifestyle
Deduru Oya Death Toll Rises to Six as Search Continues for Missing
Six people have drowned in the Deduru Oya at Kobeygane after a group of 15 entered the river during Avurudu. Search teams seek remaining missing.
Lifestyle
Buddhist Monks to Lead Islandwide 'Walk for Peace' From April 21 to 28
Senior Buddhist monks will walk from Anuradhapura to Kelaniya April 21-28 with a national ceremony at Independence Square.
Lifestyle
44 Killed in Road Accidents During Avurudu Holiday Period
44 people died in 42 road accidents across Sri Lanka between April 10–15; motorcycles and drunk driving were the primary factors.
Lifestyle
Education Ministry Launches Playground Development in All 25 Districts
Sri Lanka's Education Ministry picks one school per district for standardised playground construction to upgrade public school facilities.
Lifestyle
PHIs Take Legal Action Against Over 400 Traders After Avurudu Inspections
Public Health Inspectors filed cases against more than 400 traders after island-wide raids during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, with 12,000 shops inspected.
Lifestyle
Singapore Zoo's First Sri Lankan Leopard Cubs Make Public Debut
Three Sri Lankan leopard cubs born at the Singapore Zoo on January 1 have made their public debut — the first of the vulnerable species born at the facility.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Tourism Bureau Assures Bangladesh Visitors; SriLankan Adds $30 Fuel Surcharge
Sri Lanka Tourism's chairman told Bangladeshi partners services are uninterrupted, while SriLankan Airlines added a $30 fuel surcharge on Dhaka-Colombo.
Lifestyle
Veteran Sri Lankan Singer Antoinette De Alwis Passes Away
Legendary western vocalist Antoinette De Alwis, a prominent figure in Sri Lanka's music scene, has died.
Lifestyle
President Dissanayake Marks New Year with Oil Anointing, Visits Buddhist Prelates
AKD participates in Kandy oil anointing ceremony, then visits Malwathu and Ramanna nikaya prelates for New Year blessings.
Lifestyle
Ten Injured in Multi-Vehicle Collision in Eheliyagoda
Car loses control on Colombo-Ratnapura route, crashes into motorcycle, three-wheelers and cars injuring ten.
Lifestyle
Fisherman Killed in Mid-Sea Boat Collision off Mannar
One fisherman dead and another injured after two fishing boats collided and capsized in waters off Mannar on April 15.
Lifestyle
Met Department Issues Caution-Level Heat Alert for 21 Districts
Heat index advisory covers 21 districts on April 16, warning of fatigue and heat cramps during post-Avurudu period.
Lifestyle
Indonesian Navy Sail Training Vessel KRI Bima Suci Arrives in Colombo
Indonesian Navy's KRI Bima Suci arrives at Port of Colombo with cadets from 26 countries under ASEAN Plus Cadet Sail 2026.
Lifestyle
Met Department Issues Red Alert for 14 Districts as Severe Lightning Expected
Red alerts issued for 14 districts with severe lightning and thunderstorms expected until 11pm on April 15.
Lifestyle
Four Dead in Post-Avurudu Drowning Incidents at Mahaweli River and Habaraduwa Beach
Two brothers confirmed dead and one still missing in Mahaweli River; two men drowned at Habaraduwa beach.
Lifestyle
SLTB Hits Rs. 1 Billion in Avurudu Revenue, Sets Single-Day Record
SLTB earned Rs. 1bn over six days of New Year services, with a Rs. 213mn single-day record on April 11.
Lifestyle
83% of Deaths in Sri Lanka Caused by Non-Communicable Diseases
Health Ministry reveals one in three Sri Lankans has heart disease and nearly half of diabetes patients go untreated.
Lifestyle
Train Services Resume Normal Schedule from April 16 as Avurudu Rush Winds Down
Office train services return to normal from April 16 while NTC extends special bus services until April 20 for returning travellers.
Lifestyle
32-Year-Old Woman Murdered in Wellawaya Following Personal Dispute
Woman killed with sharp weapon in Netolagama after dispute with lover; police investigating.
Lifestyle
Avurudu Safety Alerts: Firework Accidents Rise, DIG Warns Festival Organisers
Health authorities report rising fireworks accidents during New Year season; DIG warns festival organisers to follow traffic laws strictly.
Lifestyle
29,000 Hospitalised for Accident Injuries During Avurudu Festive Season
Health officials report a spike in hospital admissions during the New Year period, with road accidents the leading cause.
Lifestyle
Online Seat Booking Extended for Avurudu Return Journeys to Colombo
Transport Ministry extends busticket.gov.lk seat reservation to return journeys on Makumbura-Galle, Makumbura-Matara and Colombo-Kandy routes.
Lifestyle
Police Issue Strict Warning to Avurudu Festival Organisers on Traffic Laws
DIG warns New Year event organisers to comply with traffic rules as 12 cases filed from WhatsApp tip-off reports.
Lifestyle
Meteorology Warns of Heavy Afternoon Showers on Sinhala Tamil New Year Day
Showers or thundershowers expected across most of the island after 1pm, potentially affecting outdoor Avurudu festivities.
Lifestyle
National Oil Anointing Ceremony at Sri Dalada Maligawa on April 15
The traditional oil anointing ceremony will be held at 6:55 a.m. at Kandy's Sri Dalada Maligawa with Health Minister Dr Jayatissa.
Lifestyle
Sinhala and Tamil New Year Dawns as President, PM Call for National Unity
Sri Lanka celebrates Sinhala and Tamil New Year with dawn at 9:32 AM; President and PM issue unity messages amid Middle East and natural disaster challenges.
Lifestyle
National Sinhala-Tamil New Year Cultural Festival Held in Gampaha
PM Harini Amarasuriya presided over the national Avurudu cultural festival in Gampaha as the country celebrated the new year.
Lifestyle
8,000 Police Officers Deployed for Avurudu New Year Traffic Duty
DIG Senadheera warns against drunk driving as 8,000 officers take up traffic posts islandwide for the festive season.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Army Rescues Missing Hiker from Hanthana Mountain Range on Avurudu
Troops rescue hiker who went missing on Katusu Konda after overnight search through darkness and fog near Kandy.
Lifestyle
1,500 Extra Buses and Special Trains Running for Avurudu; Return Services April 16–21
SLTB deploys 1,500 buses operating 24 hours with special train services active until April 19.
Lifestyle
Avurudu Dawn at 9:32 AM Tomorrow — Auspicious Times for Sinhala and Tamil New Year
New Year dawn at 9:32 AM on April 14; hearth lighting at 10:51 AM, first meal at 12:06 PM.
Lifestyle
Severe Lightning Advisory Issued for 18 Districts on Avurudu Day
Meteorology Department warns of severe lightning and thundershowers across 18 districts from afternoon to midnight on April 13.
Lifestyle
4,000 Food Outlets Inspected in 13-Day Avurudu Enforcement Drive
Health inspectors check 4,000 establishments as association warns of unfit food sales during the festive period.
Lifestyle
Ukrainian Woman Remanded Until April 22 Over Mount Lavinia Assault
A Ukrainian national living in Sri Lanka for 12 years was remanded after assaulting bystanders and police in Mount Lavinia on Avurudu eve.
Lifestyle
29,000 Hospitalised as Accident Admissions Spike During Avurudu Season
Health Ministry says 29,000 people are receiving hospital treatment for accident injuries during the New Year festive period.
Lifestyle
Severe Lightning Advisory Issued for 18 Districts on Avurudu Day
Met Department warns of severe lightning across 18 districts from 12:30pm to 11pm on Sinhala and Tamil New Year Day, urging public to stay indoors.
Lifestyle
Health Inspectors File 817 Cases in Avurudu Food Safety Crackdown
PHIs have inspected over 11,000 food outlets and seized 3,045 items in an islandwide operation ahead of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.
Lifestyle
Prisons Department Grants Special Avurudu Family Visits for Inmates
Open visits allowed on April 13-14 across all prisons; families may bring food, sweets and sanitary items.
Lifestyle
Teacher Trainee Interviews for National Colleges of Education Begin April 21
Education Ministry announces interviews for teacher trainees at National Colleges of Education from April 21 to May 8, based on 2023/2024 A/L results.
Lifestyle
Transport Minister Orders Strict Seatbelt Compliance as Avurudu Death Toll Mounts
Minister Bimal Rathnayake urges rear-seat passengers to buckle up after 49 road deaths in one week during the New Year travel season.
Lifestyle
Two Arrested for Wildlife Poaching in Yala National Park
STF and Wildlife Conservation officers arrest two suspects with 92kg of meat and a firearm in Yala Zone 02.
Lifestyle
Legendary Indian Singer Asha Bhosle Dies at 92
Asha Bhosle, one of the most prolific playback singers in Indian cinema history, has died at the age of 92.
Lifestyle
Six Killed in Road Accidents Across Sri Lanka on Avurudu Day
Police report six dead in 24 hours on New Year day, including two killed in Southern Expressway lorry collision.
Lifestyle
49 Killed in Road Accidents in One Week as Avurudu Travel Intensifies
Transport Minister Bimal Ratnayake says 49 people died in road accidents from April 4-10, blaming drug-impaired driving.
Lifestyle
Legal Action Warned Against Buses Operating Without Permits During Avurudu
Authorities warn of legal action against buses running without valid permits during the Sinhala-Tamil New Year festive travel season.
Lifestyle
Amber Lightning Advisory Issued for Nine Provinces Ahead of Avurudu
Met Department issues amber lightning warning for Western, Central, Southern and six other provinces, effective until 11pm April 12.
Lifestyle
55,000 Passengers Travel via Makumbura Hub During Avurudu Period
Makumbura Multimodal Centre handles 55,000 passengers since April 8, with special return services planned April 16-21.
Lifestyle
Munchee Sponsors Free Train Tickets for 25,000 Avurudu Travellers
Munchee sponsored free train tickets for nearly 25,000 passengers across all 85 Fort Station departures.
Lifestyle
NTC Urges Passengers to Report Avurudu Bus Overcharging via '1955' Hotline
Transport regulator steps up festive-season enforcement after seven unlicensed buses were caught operating from Colombo.
Lifestyle
Sparse Crowds in Pettah as Rising Prices Dampen Avurudu Shopping
Colombo's busiest shopping district sees unusually low turnout this New Year season as fuel and essential prices weigh on purchasing power.
Lifestyle
Police Deploy CCTV Monitoring on Expressways for Avurudu Travel Rush
DIG Senadheera warns of strict enforcement; WhatsApp tip line 070 4755600 launched for public reports
Lifestyle
Police Warn Against Real-Time Social Media Posts During Avurudu Holidays
Police urge public to avoid real-time social media posts while away for Avurudu to prevent burglaries.
Lifestyle
Energy Authority Urges Public to Keep Avurudu Festivities to Daytime Hours
SLSEA requests daytime celebrations and switching off office appliances during the holiday to conserve power
Lifestyle
Veteran Journalist and Divaina Editor Anura Solomons Dies at 66
Former Divaina Sunday Edition chief editor and presidential media adviser Anura Solomons dies of a heart attack.
Lifestyle
Thousands Crowd Makumbura as 1,500 Extra Buses Deployed for Avurudu Travel Rush
Thousands crowd Makumbura as SLTB deploys 1,500 extra buses and Railways adds special services for the New Year travel rush.
Lifestyle
Newly Renovated Colombo Bus Stand Facilities Vandalised Days After Opening
Deputy minister suspects organised vandalism after water taps removed from female toilets at Rs. 424M renovated Central Bus Stand.
Lifestyle
Police Launch WhatsApp Hotline for Reporting Reckless Drivers Ahead of Avurudu
Public can send video evidence of dangerous driving to 070-4755600; AI-generated or fabricated clips warned against.
Lifestyle
Six Killed in Road Accidents Across Sri Lanka Ahead of Avurudu Travel Rush
Six people killed in motorcycle and three-wheeler crashes across Sri Lanka on April 10 ahead of Avurudu travel rush.
Lifestyle
10-Year-Old Schoolgirl Killed After Being Hit by Bus in Mattakkuliya
A 10-year-old girl dies after being struck by a bus in Mattakkuliya; driver arrested as police investigate.
Lifestyle
SLTB Dispatches 1,490 Buses in 24 Hours as Cyclone Ditwah Forces Extra Allocations
Kandy, Hatton and Nuwara Eliya get extra buses after Cyclone Ditwah knocked out train services on key upcountry routes.
Lifestyle
Heat Advisory Issued for Five Provinces on Avurudu Day
Met Department warns of caution-level heat index across Northern, Western and Southern provinces on April 12.
Lifestyle
Government Opens Foreign Scholarship Programme for Top A/L Students
Education Ministry offers 25-50 scholarships for 2026/27 to top-500 universities abroad, with 200 awards planned over five years.
Lifestyle
Tri-Forces Launch Islandwide Security Programme for Avurudu
Defence Ministry activates joint security operation covering Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivals, shows, and religious events.
Lifestyle
All Liquor Outlets to Close April 13–14 for Sinhala and Tamil New Year
Excise Department orders nationwide liquor outlet closure for Avurudu; only licensed tourist hotels may serve foreign guests.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Census 2024: Ageing Society, Below-Replacement Fertility, 672,000 Abroad
Final census report reveals Sri Lanka's population at 21.78M with median age 35, fertility rate 1.3, and 97.4% literacy.
Lifestyle
China's School Uniform Grant Fully Distributed to 4.4 Million Students
Ministry of Education completes distribution of 11.5 million metres of Chinese-donated uniform fabric to 4.4 million students.
Lifestyle
Teachers' Union Condemns Mandatory White Saree Rule at Royal College Monaragala
CTU Secretary Joseph Stalin says compulsory white saree directive violates Education Ministry instructions.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka-Italy Driving Licence Conversion Opens for Applications
Sri Lankan embassy in Rome begins accepting driving licence conversion applications under bilateral agreement.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Awards Record Rs. 629 Million Lottery Prize
The Development Lotteries Board hands over the country's largest-ever prize of Rs. 629.8 million to a Kapruka lottery winner.
Lifestyle
Air Force Helicopter Deployed to Battle Karadiyana Garbage Dump Fire
Bell 412 helicopter assists ground crews after blaze erupts at Colombo's Karadiyana waste site midday.
Lifestyle
Schools Close as First Term Ends Ahead of Avurudu Holidays
Education Ministry confirms the first term's second phase ends today as schools begin the New Year holiday period.
Lifestyle
SLTB Urges Public to Protect Newly Renovated Colombo Central Bus Stand
SLTB raises concerns over littering and damage at the Central Bus Stand just days after its renovation under the Clean Sri Lanka initiative.
Lifestyle
Elderly Aswasuma Payments Via Post Offices Until April 11, Then All Shift to Banks in June
Beneficiaries over 70 in Aswasuma-recipient families can collect monthly allowances at post offices from April 9 to 11 ahead of Avurudu.
Lifestyle
Avurudu Kevili Table Costs Rise 7% in 2026, Now 2.5 Times 2019 Prices
Verité Research finds the cost of a traditional Avurudu kevili table has risen 7% year-on-year, driven mainly by coconut oil and rice flour prices.
Lifestyle
Sri Lankan-Origin Student, 18, Elected to French City Council
Bilaal Lookman, a first-year law student at Paris-Panthéon-Assas, becomes one of France's youngest elected officials in Guyancourt near Paris.
Lifestyle
Transport Ministry launches Colombo–Kandy special bus service after train disruption
A Ministry-run Colombo–Kandy bus service starts April 10 from Bastian Mawatha, filling the gap left by train disruptions after Cyclone Ditwah.
Lifestyle
El Niño Could Trigger Prolonged Drought Until September, Met Department Warns
Meteorology officials say reduced rainfall through the southwest monsoon could stretch Sri Lanka's dry spell into September, deepening the hydropower squeeze.
Lifestyle
Over 12,300 Sri Lankans Die Annually From Tobacco, IPS Urges Higher Taxes
Institute of Policy Studies cites WHO figures on tobacco-linked deaths and calls higher taxes the single most cost-effective public health intervention.
Lifestyle
Dissanayake Opens 59th National New Rice Festival at Anuradhapura
President pledges land rights for farmers and restoration of small and medium tanks at Aluth Sahal Mangallaya held near Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
Lifestyle
Ranaviru Seva Authority Distributes Electric Wheelchairs to War-Disabled Veterans
Authority chairman Brigadier Kohona says this is the first such programme funded entirely from government provisions rather than private donations.
Lifestyle
Sri Lankan-Australian Playwright Shakthi Wins US$175,000 Windham-Campbell Prize
S Shakthidharan, known as Shakthi, has won Yale University's US$175,000 Windham-Campbell Prize for drama — one of the world's largest literary awards.
Lifestyle
Ultra-Luxury Cruise Ship Silver Dawn Docks at Galle with 1,007 Onboard
The 213-metre Silver Dawn anchored off Galle on April 9 with 596 tourists and 411 crew, part of a 141-day global voyage before heading to Colombo on April 10.
Lifestyle
Sinharaja's Kudawa entrance closed April 10–15 for Avurudu holidays
The Kudawa entrance of Sinharaja rainforest will remain closed April 10–15 for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, reopening to visitors on April 16.
Lifestyle
23-Year-Old Woman Killed by Lightning in Wellawaya
A 23-year-old woman died after being struck by lightning in Handapanagala Kenhatha, Wellawaya, as unstable weather continues across several districts.
Lifestyle
CAA Raids Unlicensed Ayurvedic Cream Factory in Matale
CAA officials raided an unlicensed Ayurvedic cream plant in Matale that repackaged bulk product under its own label and sold it in tourist markets.
Lifestyle
CAA Raids Minuwangoda Factory Passing Off Western Pet Drugs as '100% Natural' Ayurveda
Consumer Affairs Authority finds western tick and skin-disease medicines mixed into products marketed as herbal animal care.
Lifestyle
Health Ministry Issues Safety Guidelines for Avurudu Traditional Games
Sri Lanka's NCD Unit releases safety guidelines for traditional Avurudu games including pillow fighting, pot breaking and tug-of-war.
Lifestyle
SLTB to Deploy 1,500 Extra Buses for Avurudu Travel From April 9
Sri Lanka Transport Board will add 1,500 extra buses between April 9 and April 21 for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year travel rush in and out of Colombo.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Population Reaches 21.78 Million in 2024 Census, Women Majority in Every District
First fully digital census records 1.4 million growth since 2012; Gampaha overtakes Colombo as most populous district.
Lifestyle
Cabinet Approves Moving Galle Fort Courts to Free Heritage Site for Tourism
Cabinet cleared moving the Galle High Court and Magistrate's Court to Beligaha, freeing UNESCO heritage buildings for tourism under the Galle Revival Project.
Lifestyle
12-Hour Water Cut Hits Homagama Area as Dry Weather Bites
NWSDB imposes 12-hour water cut across Homagama Zone 02 on April 7 as feeder reservoirs at Labugama and Kalatuwawa drop under prolonged dry conditions.
Lifestyle
Three Killed in Separate Wild Elephant Attacks Across Sri Lanka
Two men killed in Eppawala and one elderly man in Mahiyanganaya in elephant attacks on April 5.
Lifestyle
Buddhist Monks to Lead Seven-Day 'Walk for Peace' Across Sri Lanka
Twelve monks led by Ven. Paññakara Thero will walk Anuradhapura to Colombo on April 21-28, carrying sacred relics and a Bodhi sapling.
Lifestyle
Met Department Issues Heat Index Warning Across Most of Sri Lanka
Caution-level heat index forecast for seven provinces and Monaragala district on April 6.
Lifestyle
Jaffna Island Church Reopens for Easter After 20 Years of Landmine Clearance
Our Lady of Velankanni Church on Puvaransanthivu Island welcomes worshippers after HALO Trust completes two-decade demining effort.
Lifestyle
1990 Suwa Seriya Ambulance Service Opens New Colombo Headquarters
Suwa Seriya inaugurates its new Colombo headquarters at Horton Place as the national ambulance service plans to expand its fleet to 400 vehicles.
Lifestyle
2025 GCE A/L Results: 62.6% Qualify for University, 111 Suspended
176,527 of 281,810 candidates qualified for university entrance in the 2025 A/L exam; results of 111 candidates withheld pending inquiry.
Lifestyle
Sri Lanka Ranks 134th in World Happiness Report 2026
Sri Lanka slipped one place to 134th of 147 in the World Happiness Report 2026, with youth depression and loneliness driving the decline.