ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka has relaxed a number of restrictions that were imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19, reports quoting the Health Services Director general said, even as public health inspectors (PHIs) warn that cases of the deadly delta variant in the community may be under-reported.
While inter-provincial travel restrictions have been extended by another 14 days from Saturday (10), authorities will now permit weddings at 25 percent seating capacity or at a maximum of 150 guests. Places of worship are now open, while seminars, conferences and ‘brand launches’ may be held with the participation of no more than 50 people.
Non-COVID funerals are permitted with 50 participants maximum within 24 hours of the body being released.
Cinemas, museums, theatres are also allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity.
The Health Services statement said restaurants may open for dining in, delivery and takeaway while hotels and guest houses are also allowed to operate under strict health guidelines. This particular restriction was already lifted, however.
Health authorities confirmed 1,537 new COVID-19 cases and 43 deaths Friday (09). Daily PCR testing, which had seen a significant drop, has now picked up again, with 13,940 tests conducted Friday, according to official data.
Meanwhile, the privately owned Daily Mirror quoted PHI Union president Upul Rohana on Friday as claiming that authorities are concealing data on the fast-spreading delta variant. (Colombo/July10/2021)