Curfew lifted in the island

Curfew was lifted, island-wide, at 4.a.m today. Curfew will be effective only between 10.00 pm to 4.00 am daily in all the districts in the island from today onwards, until further notice. Guidelines prescribed by the health authorities to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 should strictly be followed during the operations of factories, institutes, offices and shops as well as public transportation, Issuing a press release, the President's Media Division stated. These guidelines include disinfection, wearing face masks, washing hands from time to time and maintaining social distance. The release adds that heads of state and privet sector entities are free to decide on the number and categories of workers to be called for work in consideration of the nature of the services they provide and health guidelines. The Government requests the public to adhere to health recommendations while engaging in their daily activities even after the curfew is relaxed. Those who fail to maintain social distancing will be arrested starting today, Deputy Inspector General of Police and Attorney-at-Law, Ajith Rohana said. Although curfew is lifted those who are not employed and have no essential reason to go out, should refrain from leaving their residences, as a precautionary measure, He said. He further added a special program will be carried out especially in Colombo and Gampaha to apprehend those who do not maintain social distancing guidelines, adding police officials in civil attire and CCTV footage will be utilized in this regard.