Post of Works Engineer

SHOCKING: Is Dialog Playing Games with Sri Lankan Cricket Fans? The T20 World Cup Coverage Scandal Exposed!

As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off, a massive controversy is brewing behind the scenes that should have every Sri Lankan cricket fan fuming. While our Lions fought hard to secure a 20-run victory against Ireland on February 8th, many fans across the island were left in the dark—literally. The reason? A calculated, “financial-first” gamble by Dialog Axiata PLC that has left nationwide free-to-air (FTA) coverage in shambles. The “Supreme” Failure: Too Little, Too Late In a move that reeks of corporate greed over public service, Dialog—the exclusive rights holder for 2026–2028 handpicked TV Supreme as its FTA partner. The problem? Supreme TV reportedly lacks the infrastructure to reach every corner of Sri Lanka. Even more shocking, despite the tournament being currently underway, leaked documents reveal that TV Supreme only formally moved to expand transmission by renting airtime on Vasantham TV on February 8th—the very day Sri Lanka played its first match! The “Vasantham” Bailout: Supreme Rents Airtime to Save Face The most damning revelation is the desperate move by TV Supreme to “acquire airtime” on Vasantham TV. Why? Because they simply cannot deliver the “nationwide coverage” Dialog promised the ICC. Despite boasting about “unprecedented scale” in January, TV Supreme has been forced to rent space on Vasantham TV’s frequencies just to keep the signal alive in critical areas. The Admission of Failure:Dialog explicitly admitted there is a “direct coverage impact” because of “existing CSN transmission limitations”. They knew the coverage was broken, yet this fix was only finalized as the World Cup was already happening. The Reality Check:Why was this “acquisition of airtime” by TV Supreme only formally set out on February 8th, after the tournament had already started? The “Limited” Solution:This isn’t a gift to fans. The arrangement is “strictly limited” to specific stations—Kokavil, Colombo, Madolsima, and Jaffna—and expires the moment the cup is over on March 9th. They aren’t investing in Sri Lankan fans; they are just doing the bare minimum to avoid an ICC penalty. Clock is Ticking: Two Days to the Next Match Sri Lanka’s next clash is against Oman on February 12th in Kandy. We are just two days away, and the “nationwide” coverage is still being patched together like a leaking roof in a monsoon. Crucial Match Missed:How many fans in rural areas missed the thrilling performances of Hasaranga and Theekshana against Ireland because of these “transmission limitations”? Upcoming High-Stakes Games:With a massive clash against Australia looming on February 16th, can we trust this last-minute scramble? Where is the Accountability? One has to ask: What is Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) doing? As a co-host of this World Cup, SLC has a moral obligation to ensure every citizen can watch the national team for free. Did the ICC know that Dialog was sub-licensing to an operator that couldn’t actually reach the fans? While Dialog hides behind “contractual obligations” and “reach assumptions,” the fans are being squeezed. If you can’t get the shaky FTA signal, Dialog is happy to sell you a subscription on their apps or website—proving that for them, this World Cup isn’t about “Powering the Passion of the Nation,” it’s about powering their bottom line. Even on their apps and website, streaming viewers are forced to pay. The Verdict:This is a slap in the face to the Sri Lankan cricket fan. To wait until the tournament starts to fix a known coverage crisis is not just a “mistake”—it’s a betrayal of the rights of the viewers.

The Sudden Loss of a National Hero: Lieutenant Koyan Chamitha

The Sri Lankan nation and its military community are in mourning following the sudden passing of Lieutenant Koyan Chamitha, a trailblazing officer of the Sri Lanka Navy’s elite Special Boat Squadron (SBS).Lieutenant Chamitha, aged 28, was discovered dead in the early hours of Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the naval quarters in the Welisara Navy Camp. He was in Colombo at the time to prepare for the upcoming Independence Day parade. A Historic AchievementLieutenant Chamitha etched his name in military history last year by becoming the first Sri Lankan to successfully complete the grueling U.S. Navy SEAL basic training.

​5 Secret ‘Untrending’ Spots in Sri Lanka Every ‘Glowmad’ Needs to Visit in 2026

Are you suffering from “Decision Fatigue”? You aren’t alone. As we move through 2026, the global travel shift has moved from “see everything” to “feel everything.” While the crowds battle for a selfie at Nine Arches Bridge, a new wave of Glowmads—travelers seeking healing and deep focus—are heading North and East. ​If you’re looking for a Decision Detox, these five hidden gems offer the perfect blend of high-speed 5G connectivity and low-speed soul searching. ​1. The Knuckles “Cloud Forest” Retreat ​Forget the hustle of Kandy. The Knuckles Mountain Range has become the ultimate Altitude Shift destination. 2026 has seen a surge in “Biohacking Retreats” here, where the thin air and organic estate teas are used for sleep optimization and mental clarity. ​2. Delft Island’s Wild Horse Sanctuary ​Jaffna is no longer just a “side trip.” Delft Island offers a rugged, Mediterranean vibe that is peak Untrending. With its coral walls and wild horses, it’s the anti-Instagrammer’s paradise. ​3. Batticaloa’s “Singing Fish” Lagoons ​While Weligama handles the surf crowds, Batti is winning over the Digital Nomads who want silence. The co-living spaces here are built into eco-mangroves, offering a “Decision-Free” lifestyle where meals and kayak tours are handled for you. ​4. The Re-opened Ambewela Railway Path ​Since the Udarata Menike resumed its full route to Ambewela late last year, the “New Zealand of Sri Lanka” has become the go-to for Nostalgic Remix content. Think ’70s aesthetic, misty meadows, and fresh dairy. ​5. Nilaveli’s Regenerative Reefs ​Marine conservation is the baseline for 2026. Nilaveli isn’t just for snorkeling anymore; it’s a hub for Regenerative Tourism. You can join local NGOs in coral gardening before heading to a “Low-alc” sunset beach bar.

My Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Kotmale: A Local’s Guide to the Hidden Valley

5. Crossing the Kothmale Hanging Bridge If you aren’t afraid of heights, I highly recommend walking across the Sangili Palama. It’s a traditional wooden suspension bridge that sways just enough to make your heart race as you look down at the Mahaweli River. It’s the best way to see the riverside tea patches up close. 6. Ranamune Raja Pihilla I love the legends that surround this place. Local history tells us that Prince Dutugemunu lived here as a commoner before becoming king. You can still see the ancient stone water spout where he supposedly bathed. It’s a quiet, green sanctuary that feels virtually untouched by time. 7. Pusulpitiya Rajamaha Viharaya When I want to connect with Sri Lanka’s royal heritage, I come here. This temple once served as a secret vault for the Sacred Tooth Relic during times of war. The atmosphere is heavy with history, and the ancient wood carvings are some of the finest I’ve seen. 8. The 360-Degree View from Peacock Hill I tell every hiker I meet to skip the crowded peaks and head to Monaragala Kanda (Peacock Hill). The climb isn’t too grueling, and the reward is a full 360-degree view of the Gampola and Kotmale valleys. On a clear morning, the sight of the reservoir shimmering below is breathtaking. 9. Viewing Devon & St. Clair’s Falls While most people view these from the main road, I prefer the vantage points from the higher Kotmale ridges. Looking across the valley at St. Clair’s—often called our “Little Niagara”—you really get a sense of the scale of our central highlands. 10. Dehadu Kadulla: The Historic Gateway For my fellow history buffs, Dehadu Kadulla is a must. This ancient mountain pass was the gateway between the hill country and the southern plains. Standing here, you can imagine the ancient armies and messengers who once used this very path to navigate the island. My Personal Travel Tips (Updated 2026)

Sri Lanka Shatters All-Time Tourism Record as India’s “Third-Favorite” Holiday Spot

Sri Lanka has officially entered a new era of global travel dominance. Today, December 29, 2025, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” achieved a historic milestone by welcoming its 2,333,797th tourist of the year, officially breaking the all-time arrival record previously set in 2018. This record-breaking moment comes on the heels of a massive surge in regional interest, with new data confirming that Sri Lanka is now the third-favorite international destination for Indian travelers, overtaking giants like Singapore and Indonesia. A Historic Milestone: Surpassing 2018 For years, 2018 was considered the “golden year” for Sri Lankan tourism with 2,333,796 arrivals. Today, that ceiling was finally shattered. In a symbolic twist of fate, the record-breaking visitor was an Indian national from Thiruvananthapuram, who was greeted with traditional Sri Lankan hospitality at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). Tourism authorities are calling this a “complete recovery” and a “renaissance” for the sector, which has faced significant hurdles over the last five years. Why Indian Travelers are Choosing Sri Lanka According to the latest MakeMyTrip year-end report, Sri Lanka has secured the #3 spot for international bookings during the 2025/2026 festive season. Only Thailand and the UAE currently rank higher. The “Visa-Free” Catalyst One of the primary drivers of this growth is the 30-day visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens. By removing the friction of travel paperwork, Sri Lanka has successfully positioned itself as a “spontaneous” getaway destination. The Compact Diversity Factor Indian tourists, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are moving away from traditional “city-only” trips. Sri Lanka’s appeal lies in its “Compact Diversity”—the ability to witness: Global Recognition: A Top 5 Destination for 2026 The momentum isn’t just regional. U.S. News & World Report has officially ranked Sri Lanka as the #5 Best Place to Visit in Asia for 2026. The island joins an elite list alongside Mount Fuji and Seoul, praised specifically for offering world-class experiences—like the scenic Pekoe Trail and the ancient fortress of Sigiriya—without the overwhelming crowds seen in other Asian hubs. What’s Next for Lankan Tourism? With the 2.3 million arrival mark crossed, the government and private sector are now looking toward a 3-million-visitor target for 2026. The focus is shifting toward sustainable high-end tourism, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty is preserved even as its popularity soars. For the locals, this record is more than just a number; it is a sign of economic stability and a global vote of confidence in the Sri Lankan spirit.

The rumors circulating in society following the incident where Isuru assaulted Deshani, leaving her with a broken nose.

The Public Outcry Following the Split Between Isuru and Deshani An intense controversy erupted after popular actress Deshani Nehara (24) and popular actor Isuru Lokuhettiarachchi (42) revealed their romantic relationship during the recent Sumathi Awards night. This announcement sparked a “battle for love” between Isuru and his former partner, Tarindi. At one point, Tarindi even held a mock wedding ceremony, which Isuru publicly criticized. From the beginning, these romantic sagas were viewed by many as part of a scripted performance. However, recent developments on social media have generated a mix of humor and sadness. Deshani recently shared photos showing injuries to her nose, confirming that their relationship has come to an end. Social media discussions have reignited as information surfaced suggesting that the conflict between the two was not a common lovers’ quarrel, but a serious incident involving physical assault and violence. This became the dominant topic on platforms like Facebook after Deshani Nehara posted an emotional note on her official accounts alongside photos of her facial injuries. Reports have since emerged alleging that Isuru assaulted Deshani, causing severe damage to her face. Following this incident, Deshani herself confirmed that their long-term relationship has officially ended. In a lengthy Facebook post, she detailed the bitter experience she endured, seeking to inform the public about the “true nature” of the person she once loved. Deshani Nehara Breaks Her Silence: “Love Made Me Blind” According to the sentiments shared by Deshani Nehara, she expressed with deep pain that some people enter our lives in disguise, hiding their true nature. She stated that such individuals play with sincere hearts under the guise of love, noting that she encountered such a “soul” during a specific period of her life. With profound shock, she recalled how she loved this person unreservedly and placed limitless trust in him, never hesitating to sacrifice the most valuable things in her life for his sake. Deshani mentioned that while she was in this relationship, many people blamed and criticized her, which even resulted in her parents facing insults. However, she expressed her gratitude to everyone who tried to advise her by pointing out the good and the bad, admitting that she had been “blinded by love.” She also gratefully remembered even strangers who tried to show her the truth for whatever reason. Critique of Character and Infidelity In her post, she further questioned why some people behave as if they lack even a spark of humanity, regardless of how much value, love, and respect they are given. She strongly criticized men who behave like animals, failing to value the humanity of an honest love. She pointed out that men who seek out other women for various motives while their own woman is by their side possess a “very low mentality.” Deshani described such individuals as having weak personalities, unable to remain faithful to one heart or respect responsibilities and commitments. She drew a sharp comparison to Isuru’s behavior by using the proverb: “The leopard does not change its spots, even if the jungle changes,” a statement that has garnered significant public attention. Final Request to the Public She concluded by stating that although this is a personal matter, she decided to post this note because it had become a topic of national discussion for several days. Finally, she requested the public to refrain from asking any further unnecessary questions regarding the matter. Key Cultural Nuance The phrase “කැලේ මාරු වුවද කොටියාගේ පුල්ලි මාරු නොවන බව” is a Sinhala idiom equivalent to the English proverb “A leopard can’t change its spots.” In this context, she is implying that despite new surroundings or new relationships, a person’s fundamental (and in this case, negative) character remains the same. This text describes the widespread social media backlash against Isuru, the support for Deshani, and the broader conversation regarding domestic violence and toxic relationships. Here is the English translation: Public Backlash and Solidarity: The Aftermath of the Deshani-Isuru Incident Following the incident, many within the arts community and across social media have rallied behind Deshani, while a wave of intense opposition has emerged against Isuru. Critics have labeled Isuru as a “womanizer” and a deceiver, suggesting that his recent behavior is unsurprising. Social media users have drawn parallels to a similar incident three years ago involving an actress named Tarindi, who was also in a relationship with Isuru. Reports state that Tarindi struggled to escape the relationship and had even posted on Facebook at the time regarding her ordeal. By comparing the two situations, many point to a recurring pattern in Isuru’s behavior. Another commentator, Manohari, noted that if respect is not present in a relationship, one should leave rather than stay. Voices from the Industry Actress Maheshi Madushanka, returning to social media after some time, addressed the issue via a live video. She expressed a mix of sarcasm and sadness, remarking that some men in Sri Lanka have reached a pathetic state; she noted that while Deshani shared photos of her actual injuries, some men have resorted to mocking the situation by posing with pieces of paper stuck to their faces. Recalling her own past bitter experiences, Maheshi warned those who once laughed at her that they too might face similar trials soon. She strongly condemned men who raise their hands against women and expressed solidarity with Deshani. Notably, Isuru’s side has yet to issue a response to these allegations. Messages of Empowerment and Caution Social media activist Sasindu Sahan Tharaka issued a poignant message to the public. He argued that if a relationship ends with one partner being beaten until their face is wounded, it is a serious sign to re-evaluate who they were with in the first place. He called it tragic that a victim has to resort to tagging an abuser on Facebook to express their pain. Sasindu noted that he has witnessed such violence not just among celebrities but in everyday life—including instances at Galle Face Green where men publicly assaulted their partners. His advice to the public

The fate of Sri Lankan players in the IPL 2026 auction.

A significant highlight of yesterday’s player auction for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) was the inclusion of two Sri Lankan players among the fifteen highest-valued players in the auction. Matheesha Pathirana, the most talked-about Sri Lankan player, managed to secure the second-highest overall value of the entire auction. He was purchased by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a staggering sum of INR 18 crore (approx. LKR 612 million). Pathum Nissanka, appearing in the auction for the first time, saw his value soar past his base price of INR 75 lakh. He was eventually bought by the Delhi Capitals (DC) for a bid of INR 4 crore. Wanindu Hasaranga was also sold during this auction, joining the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for his base price of INR 2 crore. However, several other Sri Lankan players who entered the auction remained unsold, with no franchises placing bids for them. These players include: Despite not being part of the auction, four other Sri Lankans will feature in the tournament through the player retention system. Nuwan Thushara is set to play for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Eshan Malinga and Kamindu Mendis for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Dushmantha Chameera for the Delhi Capitals (DC). Summary of Sri Lankans in IPL 2026 Player Status Team Price (If Auctioned) Matheesha Pathirana Sold Kolkata Knight Riders INR 18 Crore Pathum Nissanka Sold Delhi Capitals INR 4 Crore Wanindu Hasaranga Sold Lucknow Super Giants INR 2 Crore Nuwan Thushara Retained Royal Challengers Bangalore – Kamindu Mendis Retained Sunrisers Hyderabad – Eshan Malinga Retained Sunrisers Hyderabad – Dushmantha Chameera Retained Delhi Capitals –

Hollywood director Rob Reiner and wife found dead in Los Angeles home

Hollywood star Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead at their Brentwood home on Sunday, which police describe as an apparent homicide. A spokesperson for the Reiner family confirmed the deaths on Sunday evening. “We announce with deep sorrow the tragic passing of Michele and Rob Reiner,” the family spokesperson said in a statement. “We are heartbroken by this sudden loss and ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.” Police said the Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the deaths as a homicide after the couple’s bodies were discovered at their home in the 200 block of Chadbourne Avenue. Reiner, 78, was a popular actor, director, and later a political activist, while his wife was a photographer and producer. Law enforcement sources also told The Times that a family member was being questioned in connection with the deaths. While not permitted to speak publicly about the ongoing investigation, a source familiar with the investigation confirmed that there were no signs of forced entry into the house. The source further stated that the Reiners had wounds consistent with stab injuries. At a press conference on Sunday evening, LAPD Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton revealed little information about the incident but said an autopsy was pending. He said detectives were working to obtain a search warrant before beginning an “extensive” investigation inside and outside the home. “At this time, the Los Angeles Police Department is not looking for anyone as a suspect or a person of interest… We won’t until we conduct our investigations and move forward,” Hamilton said. He said many family members would be questioned, but “no one is detained; no one is being questioned as a suspect.” Hamilton confirmed that the person who first reported the incident was present at the house. He said their identity would not be released at this time. On Sunday morning, Los Angeles Fire Department spokeswoman Margaret Stewart said the department was called to the home around 3:30 p.m. for medical aid. Two bodies were found inside the house. Reiner pursued a career spanning five decades in Hollywood. Early in his career, he starred as Michael “Meathead” Stivic in the popular sitcom “All in the Family” from 1971 to 1979, where he worked alongside Carroll O’Connor as Archie Bunker. As a director, Reiner directed a series of popular films, including “When Harry Met Sally,” “The Princess Bride,” and “This Is Spinal Tap.” His work took a dramatic turn when he adapted and directed Stephen King’s novella “Stand by Me” in 1986. Reiner was nominated for an Academy Award for the 1992 film “A Few Good Men.” Although it starred Jack Nicholson and Tom Cruise, the film lost to Clint Eastwood’s western film “Unforgiven.” Reiner was also a prominent political voice in Hollywood. He was the co-founder of the American Foundation for Equal Rights. That organization led the fight to overturn Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage. He has also been active on children’s issues for many years, leading the campaign to pass Proposition 10, the California Children and Families Initiative, which created an ambitious program for child development services. Proposition 10 is considered a landmark policy. For this effort, Reiner received support from Steven Spielberg, Robin Williams, and his own father, comedy legend Carl Reiner. Reiner was also married to Penny Marshall.

Sri Lanka Under Siege: Widespread Landslide Warnings and Mass Evacuations Amid Relentless Rainfall

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka is currently grappling with a severe natural disaster as incessant heavy rainfall has triggered widespread landslide warnings and necessitated urgent evacuations across multiple districts. The past 48 hours have seen a dramatic escalation in alerts from the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) and coordinated responses by the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), as the nation confronts rising floodwaters and treacherous earth slips. The situation remains critical, with a mounting death toll and thousands displaced, highlighting the island’s acute vulnerability to extreme weather events. Red Alerts Issued: Immediate Evacuations in High-Risk Zones The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has escalated its landslide warnings to a Level 3 ‘Red Alert’ for numerous divisional secretariat divisions across Badulla, Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya districts, urging immediate evacuation for residents in these highly vulnerable areas. Specific areas under the gravest threat include Haguranketha, Walapane, Nildandahinna, and Mathurata in the Nuwara Eliya District, and Ududumbara in the Kandy District. Further Level 3 warnings have been extended to Badulla, Hali Ela, Kandeketiya, Passara, Meegahakivula, Uva Paranagama, and Welimada DSDs in Badulla, alongside numerous other areas in Kandy, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Matale, Monaragala, and Nuwara Eliya. These critical warnings, some effective until 8:30 p.m. on November 27th and others until 9:00 a.m. on November 28th, underscore the persistent danger. The NBRO has emphasized that residents in landslide-prone areas must evacuate without delay as advised by local authorities. Casualties and Displacement Mount Tragically, the adverse weather has already claimed lives and caused significant displacement. As of Thursday, November 27th, the death toll from floods and landslides across Sri Lanka has risen to at least 31, with 14 individuals reported missing. The central tea-growing district of Badulla has been particularly hard-hit, where 16 people were buried alive after mountain slopes collapsed onto their homes. Another four fatalities were reported in Nuwara Eliya district due to similar incidents. (10) Facebook The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reported on November 26th that 301 individuals from 111 families in the Passara and Haputale Haldummulla Divisional Secretariat areas of Badulla district were evacuated to safe locations. This included 197 people from 69 families in Kanaverella Estate. On November 25th, approximately 30 people in the Pettigala area of Balangoda were relocated due to immediate landslide risks, with several houses already damaged in Kumbalwela, Bandarawela, and Panwilahena, Udugama. Overall, nearly 400 homes have been damaged, and over 1,100 families have been moved to temporary shelters. Weather Forecast: More Heavy Rains Expected The Department of Meteorology has warned of continued very heavy rainfall. Forecasts indicate showers exceeding 150 mm in the Eastern, Central, and Uva Provinces, and Polonnaruwa District today (November 27th), with other areas potentially experiencing over 100 mm. A low-pressure area in the vicinity of Sri Lanka is expected to move north-northwest and intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours, exacerbating the situation. This system is predicted to bring rainfall exceeding 200 mm in Northern, North Central, Eastern, Southern, Uva, and Western provinces, and elevate flood risks, particularly in low-lying river basin areas until November 30th. Accompanying the heavy rains are very strong winds of about 60-70 kmph, expected over most parts of the island, leading to rough to very rough seas. Naval and fishing communities have been advised not to venture into the sea areas around the island until further notice. Disruptions and Emergency Response The severe weather has led to significant disruptions. The Colombo-Badulla main road near Haputale was completely blocked by a landslide, with clearing operations underway. In a critical measure to ensure student safety, the government has suspended the G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination scheduled for November 27th and 28th nationwide. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has urged the public to report all weather-related emergencies to their 117 hotline. Search and rescue teams have been deployed across affected districts, and safety centers have been established to provide refuge for displaced families. Residents in high-risk zones are continuously advised to remain vigilant, pay close attention to official warnings, and take all necessary precautions. Crucially, individuals evacuated from landslide-affected areas are advised against returning home until expert inspections confirm the safety of their residences. As Sri Lanka endures this challenging period, the coordinated efforts of government agencies and the vigilance of its citizens are paramount in mitigating further loss and safeguarding lives against the relentless forces of nature. The nation remains on high alert, bracing for continued adverse weather and its potential repercussions.