Full probe ordered into Homagama factory fire that killed five

Colombo, July 21 (Daily Mirror) - Labour Deputy Minister Mahinda Jayasinghe has instructed officials of the Labour Department to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the fire that broke out at a factory in the Katuwana Industrial Zone, Homagama, this morning (21), and submit a report urgently.

Five people were killed and several others injured in the tragic incident.

The Deputy Minister has instructed Labour Commissioner General Nadeeka Wataliyadda to pay special attention during the investigation to several key areas, including the immediate cause of the fire, whether proper fire safety and occupational safety standards had been maintained at the factory, and whether adequate safety facilities and emergency evacuation procedures were in place for workers.

The investigation will also examine whether the factory had complied with the provisions of the Factories Ordinance and other relevant occupational safety regulations, and whether any negligence or lapses had contributed to the incident.