• People had been virtually immobilised for more than a month and now  they have some measure of relief after easing of control 

By Ranjith Karunaweera  

Veddha Chief  Vanaspathi Uruvarige Vannila Ettho stressed that the people must strictly adhere to the health precautions without misusing the relaxing of travel restrictions. He said the people had been virtually immobilised for more than a month and now they have some measure of relief after easing of control.   

 “People are rejoicing today. But, they must not forget that they are still facing the threat of COVID-19. If we misuse the relief provided by the government, we would be ruined. It is the duty of every citizen to strictly adhere to the health precautions and avoid travel for pleasure and merry-making social activities to save everyone from the deadly disease. The situation would worsen if the people behaved haphazardly in the way they misused the freedom during the new year festive season. An Indian variant of the virus is raising its ugly head and several Sri Lankans have already contracted it,” he said.   

He said that the health authorities, police and the security forces alone would not be able to bring the situation under control if the people had a free hand and ignored the impending danger. He said closure of the country for prolonged periods was not possible and that it would not be a remedy. He requested the people not to create new Covid-19 clusters. 

• Closure of the country for prolonged periods was not possible and it would not be a remedy