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.
CEB workers to continue TU action despite President’s warning
Electricity workers continued their trade union action today against the government’s plan to restructure the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) into four entities. Employees staged a sick-leave strike and protested outside the CEB head office, demanding authorities address their concerns. The unions said this marked the 13th day of action, while President Anura Kumara Dissanayake insisted the restructuring protects workers’ rights and urged strikers to reconsider.
Sampath Manamperi surrenders to Court
Former local government member Sampath Manamperi surrendered to the Walasmulla Magistrate’s Court today in connection with the discovery of chemicals used to produce crystal meth in Middeniya. The Court of Appeal had earlier directed police to ensure his safety upon surrender. The chemicals have been linked to underworld figures recently arrested in Indonesia.
COPE flags Rs. 12 Mn revenue loss from sand mining project
COPE has revealed that the government lost more than Rs. 12 million in royalties from a sand mining project in Puttalam due to lapses at the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB). Lawmakers said royalties were collected for only a fraction of the sand removed and called for amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act. The committee also raised concerns over quarry royalty practices, irregular exploration licenses, stalled projects in Mannar, unrehabilitated mined lands, and suspected illegal quartz exports.
Adani Group to double Colombo terminal capacity ahead of schedule – Report
India’s Adani Group and partners will complete the $840 million Colombo West International Terminal ahead of schedule, aiming for late 2026 instead of February 2027, Reuters reported. The project, a deepwater facility next to a China Merchants Port terminal, will double capacity to handle 3.2 million containers annually, mostly from India. Adani Ports holds a 51% stake, John Keells 34%, and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority the rest. The move comes after Adani dropped a $553 million U.S. funding request amid bribery allegations, which the company denies.
SLTB will soon recruit women bus drivers & conductors : Minister
Transport Minister Bimal Ratnayake said that women drivers and conductors will soon be recruited to the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB). Speaking at an event in Colombo on Sept. 16, he said 750 new staff are being hired to ease shortages and efforts are underway to modernize 25 bus depots. Acknowledging years of mismanagement, the minister vowed to rebuild the SLTB into a profitable institution.
