The Police defended the actions taken by the Thebuwana police Officer In Charge in releasing the lorry transporting sand and said that the said lorry had a valid permit for the transport of sand.A lorry transporting sand had been taken into custody by the Sergeant on September 28. however, the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Thebuwana Police Station had released the lorry the following day, stating that the vehicle had a valid permit to transport sand.

The prevailing inclement weather is expected to enhance over most of the country today, with rain measuring over 150 mm in certain places, the Meterology Department warned in a special advisory yesterday adding that the condition was caused by a low pressure system in the Arabian Sea.

The highest rainfall measuring 199 mm was recorded from Usavali in Kalutara, followed by Bulathsinhala (138.7mm) and Walallavita (124.6 mm) according to the National Building Research Organization.Meanwhile, the Irrigation Department has warned that as of yesterday evening, water levels of the Kalu, Gin, Kelani and Attanagalla Oya was on the rise.

Alerts were issued to Nagalam Street, Putupaula and Panadugama stations while flood like conditions were reported from Millakanda, Baddegama and Dunamale.People living in downstream areas had been alerted and advised to evacuate.

All kachcheri and Divisional Secretariats have been instructed to remain on alert to meet any emergency situation arising from the inclement weather, Minister of Home Affairs Vajira Abeygunawardena said. “Disaster situation has occurred in several places in the country and all Divisional Secretaries have been instructed to take all measures to provide relief to those affected and ensure others are alerted.” Dry rations, medication and relief aid was being distributed to the affected areas.