25th April 2026 17:27:44 Hours
At around 0400 hrs on 23 April 2026, a major fire was reported at the Ratnapura Public Market Complex, located within Ratnapura Town. The fire had spread rapidly across the market premises, resulting complete destruction of approximately 120 commercial stalls. The incident has caused significant damage to property and disruption to local commercial activities.
Firefighting operations were immediately initiated by the troops of 11 Battalion Gemunu Watch and Ratnapura Police in coordination with the Ratnapura Municipal Council to contain and fully extinguish the fire at around 0730 hrs.
Under the direction and guidance of the General Officer Commanding 16 Infantry Division and under the supervision of the Commander 161 Infantry Brigade, 2 officers and 20 other ranks were promptly dispatched to the location. Army troops were led by the Commanding Officer of the 11Battalion Gemunu Watch. They worked in close coordination with relevant civil authorities to contain and extinguish the fire thereby ensuring the safety of public and property.
