Sri Lanka Roundup: Money printing, African swine fever outbreak, Indian flight bomb threat
Central Bank of Sri Lanka rejects money printing reports
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has rejected allegations that it has engaged in the printing of Rs. 100 billion (approximately $341 million). CBSL representatives characterised these claims as "completely baseless," asserting that their open market operations are conventional practices dedicated to bolstering price stability and regulating interest rates. The bank maintained that there has been no issuance of additional currency or inappropriate money issuance aimed at financing the government's budget.
Installation of rooftop solar systems at religious sites across Sri Lanka
India has embarked on a significant initiative involving a $17 million project to install rooftop solar systems at 5,000 religious sites across Sri Lanka, comprising temples, churches, and mosques. The initiative, governed by the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority, intends to curtail energy expenses while facilitating a transition to renewable energy sources within the country. This project is projected to yield roughly 37 million units of energy annually and includes a five-year maintenance programme to guarantee sustainability. The anticipated completion of this project is slated for early next year and is in alignment with India's "Neighbourhood First" policy, which underscores collaborative efforts with Sri Lanka. Additional renewable energy initiatives are in the pipeline, including solar electrification of Buddhist temples and developments focusing on hybrid energy.
African swine fever outbreak in Sri Lankan province
African swine fever (ASF) – initially identified in Sri Lanka's Western Province – has now extended its reach to the Uva, Northern, and North Western provinces. Reports indicate that around 20,000 to 25,000 out of 70,000 pigs in the western province have been afflicted. With four farms confirming cases, authorities have instituted control measures that include the culling of infected animals. Nevertheless, the economic ramifications concerning compensation weigh heavily on the response strategy. In light of these developments, the government is poised to issue a Gazette notification that will outline measures to effectively manage the outbreak. Recent investigations have corroborated the presence of ASF in pigs located in the Gampaha District, where unusual mortalities have been noted.
Sri Lanka launches investigation into Indian flight bomb threat
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Sri Lanka has instigated an investigation into a bomb threat directed at an Indian flight, as confirmed by Minister Vijitha Herath. This incident adds to a disconcerting trend, as over 90 flights in India have been impacted by fraudulent bomb threats since mid-October, predominantly disseminated through social media channels. Although rigorous checks of the affected flights have uncovered no actual threats, these bogus alerts have generated considerable disruptions and alarm among passengers. In response, Indian authorities have initiated actions to block social media accounts associated with these hoaxes, while Sri Lanka is reassessing safety protocols.
Drugs worth $3.2 million seized in India was headed to Sri Lanka
India’s Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has made a significant seizure of methamphetamine valued at Rs 27 crore (roughly $3.2 million) in Chennai, eastern India which was being trafficked to Sri Lanka. The authorities apprehended two individuals: Vijaykumar, a Sri Lankan national, and Manivannan. During the arrests, 1.9 kg of the narcotic and Rs 15 lakh (over $17,000) in cash were confiscated. Subsequent searches unearthed an additional 900 grams at Manivannan's residence. Both suspects remain under investigation as officials delve deeper into their drug trafficking network.
