Express train service to Talaimannar from September:
Groundwork for sugar factory in Vavuniya:
President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to transform Mannar into an energy hub during his presence at the annual festival of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in Mannar yesterday (15).
He also revealed that an inter-city express train service between Thalaimannar and Colombo will commence on September 15 aiming at enhancing connectivity and facilitating smoother travel between the two cities.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe also participated in the morning service of the feast this year. Subsequent to the main ceremony, a statue of Lady Madhu was carried in procession throughout the Church grounds to pay homage to the devoted attendees.
A significant number of devotees from various parts of the country gathered for the annual feast. The year 2024 marks the completion of 100 years since the enshrinement of the revered statue of Lady Madhu.
The Church management board has decided to hold services throughout the year to commemorate this occasion. President Wickremesinghe further commented: It must be acknowledged that the annual feasts of the National Shrine of Lady Madhu are an integral part of our local culture. Therefore, considering this festival as a national event, the government bears the responsibility of safeguarding and supporting its continuation. Furthermore, on this occasion, I extend the Government’s gratitude to all the clergy who dedicate themselves to organizing the annual Madhu feast. Numerous devotees come here to seek solace through prayers to Lady Madhu. During last year’s economic crisis, a substantial number of devotees gathered here to pray for Lady Madhu’s assistance and protection. It can be said that Lady Madhu’s blessings provided us with strength during that challenging time. The Mannar region, where the National Shrine of Lady Madhu is located, possesses abundant renewable energy resources. With access to solar, wind, and green energies, the Mannar district can be developed into an energy hub.
“We have also formulated plans to transform Punarin into an energy city. It is important to note that all these development initiatives are designed to preserve this sacred land and its forests. I have instructed officials to seek advice and guidance from the clergy here during these development efforts.
An inter-city express train service from Thalaimannar to Colombo is scheduled to commence on September 15. This service is being launched on the request of MP Charles Nirmalanathan. Additionally, steps have been taken to establish a sugar factory in Vavuniya, as requested by MP Selvam Adekkalanathan. Cabinet approval has been obtained for this project. These measures aim to facilitate rapid development in these regions. Through these endeavours, we aspire to build a developed Sri Lanka by 2048. I count on your support in achieving this goal.
The event was attended by Bishops led by Mannar Bishop Dr.Emmanuel Fernando, Cultural Affairs Minister Vidura Wickramanayake, Minister Naleen Fernando, State Minister Arundika Fernando, Kader Masthan, MPs Kavinda Jayawardene, Selvam Adekkalanathan, Charles Nirmalanathan, President’s Senior Adviser on National Security and President’s Chief of Staff Sagala Ratnayake and a large number of devotees were present.
Apostolic Nuncio commends President’s statement in Parliament
The Vatican’s Apostolic Nuncio of Sri Lanka Rev. Dr. Brian Udaigwe who attended the main service, commended President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s statement in Parliament regarding National Peace and Reconciliation.
He mentioned that this statement has received the blessings of the Vatican and the Catholic Church. Rev. Dr. Udaigwe emphasised that religious leaders have a crucial role in maintaining peace and harmony in the country. He also stressed that whether a religious figure divides or unites the country is determined by their own actions.