President not in favor of countrywide lockdown – General Shavendra Silva

After a crucial discussion with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa over the prevailing COVID-19 situation in the country, it has been decided not to impose a countrywide lockdown but certain restrictions will be imposed, Army Commander General Shavendra Silva said.

General Silva said some restrictions will be imposed on public gatherings and on how many people can gather.

Accordingly wedding attendees at places where the capacity is over 500 will be limited to 150 while the places of less than 500 capacity will be limited to 100.

Also, a maximum of 25 people are allowed to attend the funeral at any given time with effect from midnight today.

All state festivals are postponed until September 1 while the attendance of public servants should be decided by the head of the institution.

The General urged the public to refrain from large gatherings at public places and follow the strict health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.