Today’s News Digest: Your go-to summary of the key events and headlines that shaped the day. From major developments to breaking news, we bring you everything that happened today, all in one quick and easy read.
Government maps districts with highest counts of crop‑damaging animals
An islandwide animal census found Sri Lanka is home to 5.17 million toque monkeys, 1.74 million grey langurs, 2.66 million giant squirrels and 4.74 million peacocks. The Agriculture Ministry identified hotspots in districts including Kandy, Kegalle, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kurunegala and said the data will inform crop protection efforts.
Prisons media spokesman resigns after unauthorised pardon row
The media spokesman for the Prisons Department, has tendered his resignation following controversy over the unauthorised release of an inmate from Anuradhapura Prison under a presidential pardon. The government plans a reorganisation of prison leadership, including changes to superintendent positions.
Two Covid‑19 variant deaths recorded in Sri Lanka
Health officials confirmed two deaths from a new Covid‑19 variant, which current data show causing mild illness in most cases. Virology experts report that 9–13% of respiratory cases are now attributed to the strain, with effects described as “very low severity”
Opposition parties form alliance ahead of local council elections
SJB, UNP, SLFP and SLPP held a joint press conference in Colombo announcing a coalition to contest several local authorities. A committee has been established to coordinate activities and improve living standards in targeted constituencies
COPA orders audit on losses from daily train cancellations
The Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) has recommended that an audit be conducted to assess the daily financial losses caused by cancelled and delayed train services. A report is to be submitted to the transport ministry as part of the initiative
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