In brief

Peliyagoda fly-over another record

The first phase of the Peliyagoda flyover is due to be completed on Tuesday, possibly adding yet another world record in the construction industry. With the successful implementation of the flyover project, the Government has decided to construct 16 new pre-fabricated flyovers in Colombo and the suburbs to ease traffic congestion.

Surge into LTTE defences

Heavy fighting broke out between the SLA and LTTE terrorists in the general area South of Adampan, Mannar during the early hours of yesterday. According to defence sources, troops mounted heavy artillery and mortar attacks followed by a surge into the LTTE forward defences killing at least over a dozen terrorists, from 4.45 a.m. yesterday.

JVP leader hails B'caloa polls

Despite his party's objection over the Provincial Council (PC) system JVP leader, Somawansa Amarasinghe said the Eastern polls are clearly one of the greatest victories of democracy. The JVP leader announced his party's decision to contest the election as an independent party but said the Government has no right to use this victory for its own advantage.

Lay off, B'desh tells DPLs

Bangladesh's interim administration has asked foreign diplomats, who often make comments on domestic politics, not to interfere in the country's internal affairs. The government's move came on the heels of recent visits by foreigners who made comments on the country's criminal justice system and human rights situation.

Sir Arthur laid to rest

The funeral of legendary science fiction writer, futurist and inventor of the communications satellite Sir Arthur C. Clarke, (90), took place at the General cemetery, Kanatte yesterday. Clarke was buried in a plot owned by his friend and business partner with whom the writer lived for decades.

Khema Samaraweera’s funeral tomorrow

Matara district MP and Sri Lanka Freedom Party Mahajana Wing leader and former Minister Mangala Samaraweera’s mother Khema Samaraweera passed away yesterday after a prolonged illness.

Khema was the wife of former Minister Mahanama Samaraweera. She was also a member of the Matara Urban Council in 1950 as well as from 1990 to 1997. Khema Samaraweera also served at the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd. The funeral will take place at 3.00 p.m. tomorrow in Matara.