Premadasa Slams Government on Farmer Crisis Amidst Cultural Celebrations and Dual Weather Threats; US-Canada Trade War Escalates

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa addressed Parliament on August 21, describing farmer livelihoods as "economic devastation" and accusing the government of deceiving the public with false promises. He claimed farming has been "destroyed" and referenced issues with cultivation damage, stating the government has "snatched away people's right to life"

. In other policy news, the government plans to introduce legal provisions to curb the use of toxic chemicals for artificial fruit ripening, following numerous consumer complaints, to ensure public health safety

. Additionally, a significant policy shift is being considered to raise the minimum age for three-wheeler drivers to 40 years, aiming to discourage young individuals from entering the profession immediately after school and instead guide them towards further education and vocational training

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The first Randoli Perahera of the Kandy Esala Perahera commenced, notably attended by Mahiyangana Vadi Nayaka Uru Warige Vannilaththa and other Vadi community members. The second Randoli Perahera is scheduled for August 24th, with the historic event concluding on August 28th

. Meanwhile, the funeral procession for legendary singer Nanda Malini has commenced from her residence towards the Borella Cemetery crematorium. Biographical details reveal her journey from Lewandua, Alutgama, to becoming a celebrated artist after her talent was discovered at Sri Gunananda Vidyalaya

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Sri Lanka faces contrasting weather patterns, with rainfall expected to increase from August 25th in the Southwest, raising flooding and landslide risks. Concurrently, severe dry weather and a water crisis are affecting over 81,865 people across districts like Ampara, Batticaloa, Monaragala, Polonnaruwa, Ratnapura, and Hambantota, with Monaragala being the most impacted

. The Department of Meteorology has also issued a heat advisory for several districts, including Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, Batticaloa, Ampara, and Monaragala, warning of high "felt temperatures" or "heat index" that require public attention and precautions

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Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya paid her final respects to the late legendary singer Dr. Nanda Malini at the Navala Sangitha Ashramaya, offering condolences to her family. In accordance with her final wishes, the cremation will proceed at Borella Cemetery without a eulogy or funeral service

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A significant international trade dispute has escalated as Trump imposes a 50% tariff on Canadian imports. In response, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has vowed to implement dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs on American goods, signaling the beginning of a trade war between the two nations

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A fatal three-wheeler collision with the Sagarika express train occurred at a railway crossing in Aluthgama, resulting in the death of the three-wheeler driver and serious injuries to his passenger. Following the incident, residents staged a protest, blocking the railway line and highlighting the lack of a safety gate and irregular signal operations at the crossing as critical safety concerns

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