Two-day system to re-open shops not practical

Two-day system to re-open grocery stores & pharmacies not practical

by Zulfick Farzan 02-11-2020 | 1:26 PM

Colombo (News 1st); The Implementation of the two-day system to re-open grocery stores and pharmacies are not practically applicable during the Quarantine Curfew week in the Western Province, said the Director-General of the Government Information Department.

Speaking to News 1st, Nalaka Kaluwewa said the circular dated the 27th of October was issued before the entire Western Province was placed under a quarantine curfew.

However, he hinted there is a possibility of a decision being taken mid-week to address the issues faced by the people.

On the 27th of October, a timetable was issued for the re-opening of grocery stores and pharmacies in quarantine curfew imposed areas.

Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva said grocery stores & pharmacies in the Gampaha and Kalutara Districts can re-open every Monday & Thursday from 08 AM to 10 PM.

The Army Commander added grocery stores & pharmacies in quarantine curfew areas of Colombo and Kurunegala Districts can re-open every Tuesday & Friday from 08 AM to 10 PM.

However, Shavendra Silva, the Head of the National Operations Centre for the Prevention of COVID-19 (NOCPC) while announcing the extended curfew on Sunday (01) said the system which was imposed during the first lockdown in Sri Lanka of delivering food will be re-introduced to the Western Province.