• Full capacity has been allowed for almost all events and functions except for weddings 

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

Issuing a new set of health guidelines applicable for March, the Health Ministry has lifted restrictions where full capacity has been allowed for almost all events and functions except for weddings.  

Accordingly, the limited capacity allocated for restaurants, shops, groceries, supermarkets, banks, cinemas, sports activities with spectators, tuition classes and funerals, has been lifted and advised to operate under preventive measures.  

However, limited capacity is still in effect for private gatherings, weddings and exhibitions where a maximum of 75% of the usual capacity is allowed.  

Moreover, there are no specific guidelines for religious places but it has been informed to conduct special festivals and occasions as per guidelines issued by Health Ministry.  
It should be noted that there is no mention of obtaining prior approval from the Director-General of Health Services before holding public gatherings and meetings.  

Commenting on the relaxation of restrictions, COVID-19 Coordinator Dr. Anwar Hamdani told Daily Mirror that the decrease in caseload and deaths were taken into the consideration when lifting restrictions further.