The SLA's positions at Eluthumadduval junction on the A9 highway have been withdrawn to the interior closer to the main base here which is located to the west of the main road.
Sources in Jaffna said that the SLA is beefing up its strength in the Varani area because the move by the LTTE on Saturday is perceived as a direct threat to the only road that is now open as the lifeline to the Sri Lankan security forces in Thenmaradchi.
The SLA has been depending on the Kodikamam-Nelliyadi through Varani to supply its troops in Thenmaradchi. The other two link roads remain interdicted.
The two SLA garrisons in the Eluthumadduval-Kilali sector are located west of the A9 to facilitate emergency supply or even withdrawal by the lagoon.
The civilians who fled the fighting in Thenmaradchi have sought refuge in the premises of the Sella Sannithy temple in Thondamanar in the Vadamardchi division.
Meanwhile the SLA opened up a barrage with artillery and Multi Barrel Rocket Launchers (MBRL) on LTTE held areas southeast of Jaffna town from 5 p.m to 7 p.m. An army officer in Jaffna town told TamilNet that the artillery and rocket attack was aimed at preventing the Tigers from massing up. The firing was in the direction of Poompuhar, Kowtharimunai, Kalmunai and Maniyanthottam sources said.
