Since the government announced a 10-day lockdown yesterday afternoon, the nation has been left puzzled. With contradictory terms used for the shutdown and then ever-changing lists being released as to who can function and who cannot, one wonders why a collective decision cannot be taken.
A prayer service led by Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith was held at the Archbishop’s House, Colombo today with the participation of several other Catholic priests in commemoration of the victims of the Easter Sunday attacks. Pix by Pradeep Dilrukshana and Nimalsiri Edirisinghe
People are preparing ahead for the upcoming stay-at-home order which comes into effect from 10 pm today until August 30. The Government has imposed a ten-day lockdown in view to prevent the prevalent COVID-19 outbreak in the county. Pix by Samantha Perera, Waruna Wanniarachchi and Pradeep Pathirana and Nimalsiri Edirisinghe
In a dreadful situation where lockdowns are not on the cards, people must ensure that they strictly abide by the health guidelines and practices when they are outdoors. However, people still don’t seem to have realised the gravity of the pandemic threat and making the situation go from bad to worse through their haphazard behaviour. Pix by Waruna Wanniarachchi
A vaccination centre has been set up at the New Moor Street, Colombo 12 by the Jinthupitiya and Modara MOH offices together with Wellaweediya Police to administer vaccines for those who have not yet taken a single dose of a vaccine in the Colombo city. Pix by Nimalsiri Edirisinghe
Members of the Civil Defence Force are seen busy putting the final touches in the construction of new wards at the Cancer Hospital, Maharagama today for those cancer patients who have become COVID-19 positive. The project was funded by the Sri Lanka National Youth Council and the Global Wings Charity. Pix by Pradeep Pathirana
Two complaints were filed at the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) by Sihala Rawaya and Ayurvedic practitioner Indrani Swarna Senaratne today against alleged violation of human rights with regard to the COVID vaccination program. Venerable Akmimana Dayaratana Thera and Ms Senaratne pictured here after filing the complaints. Pix by Pradeep Dilrukshana
The 75th Independence Day of India was celebrated in different parts of Sri Lanka today in strict compliance with COVID-19 protocols.The celebrations this year are part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2021, to commemorate 75 years of a progressive and self-reliant India. The main event was held at ‘India House’, the official residence of High Commissioner of India.
The Central Bus Stand and the private bus stand in Colombo wore an almost deserted look despite the city remains open for public. However, people seem to be hesitant in using public transport due to the fears of the worsening COVID-19 situation. In addition, the inter-province public transport was also suspended with effect from midnight yesterday. Pix by Samantha Perera
Canada issues travel advisory over serious risk in Arugam Bay
More countries issue travel advisories
Sri Lanka Tourism invites global travellers for upcoming season
Russian embassy urges citizens to stay vigilant in Arugam Bay
US Embassy issues travel warning for Arugam Bay
Immigration authorities to crack down on overstaying Russians, Israelis
Sri Lanka may face another economic turmoil: Sajith