Borella OIC dies from injuries in Hanwella violence
March 16, 2014
The office-in-charge (OIC) of the Borella Police Station, Chief Inspector Prasad Siriwardena, who was injured due to the violence at Thunnane on High Level Road this morning has died, Police Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said.
The police officer was injured when a tree cut down by angry protesters reportedly fell on him, during the protest staged by the residents of Hanwella area today.
He was admitted to the Avissawella Hospital where he succumbed to injuries.
Earlier today police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse an unruly crowd protesting against a factory in Thunnane, Hanwella by blocking the High Level Road.
Residents were demanding the closure of a rubber factory that they claim pollute the water in the area.
Around 20 persons involved in the protest were arrested, SSP Ajith Rohana said.
The protest had cause severe traffic congestion in the area while motorists were advised to use alternate routes.
By Niranjala Ariyawansha-March 16, 2014 Director of the Non-Communicable Disease Unit of the Health Ministry, Dr. Mohamed Iqbal, said around 360 drug users die every day. He also said around 1,000 persons die daily due to various causes and 68% of such deaths are due to non-communicable diseases.
"The majority of the deaths caused by non-communicable diseases are due to heart attacks, diabetes, strokes, high blood pressure and cancer. The use of drugs can cause cirrhosis and any of the above diseases," he pointed out.
He emphasized that such deaths can be prevented by following good personal health care measures.
"Causes of non-communicable diseases are not germs that attack cells. They can be caused by smoking, drinking alcohol, chewing betel and the lack of exercise. Nearly 68% of daily deaths due to non-communicable diseases is a cause for serious concern," he added.
Dr. Iqbal, highlighting the importance of preventing such deaths, said the department is using several methods including posters, hand bills and even street theatre to educate the people to change their lifestyles for a long and healthy life.
