(VIDEO) COVID lockdown will negatively impact the economy, says CBSL

COLOMBO (News1st): Central bank governor Professor W.D.Lakshman has said that an islandwide lockdown will negatively impact the country's economy.

"...the health sector is urging the government to impose an islandwide lockdown for a minimum of two weeks," Prof. Lakshman said during a media briefing.

"We are of the stance that we should try our best to address this issue without an islandwide lockdown."

The central bank governor pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic and its related measures primarily affect the poor communities that account for approximately 30% of Sri Lanka's total population.

Prof. Lakshman expressed hope that the vaccination programme and the work from home culture will minimize the economic impact caused due to the third wave.

"However, the third wave will negatively affect government revenue and economic growth," he said.