In light of the ongoing fuel supply challenges, the government has decided to grant public sector employees a weekly holiday on Wednesdays, effective from next Wednesday (17).
This announcement was made by Essential Services Commissioner General Prabath Chandrakeerthi during a special press conference held at the Government Information Department.
He further stated that heads of state institutions have been authorized to determine the number of employees required to report to work during the remaining four working days of the week.
Additionally, it has been decided to treat Wednesdays as a holiday for schools, universities, and the judiciary.
However, this policy will not apply to essential services, including the health sector, ports, water supply, and customs.
The Commissioner General also noted that requests have been made to the Chamber of Commerce and the Sri Lanka Employees’ Federation to consider implementing similar measures within the private sector.
Meanwhile, all state ceremonies have been temporarily suspended.
Universities have also been granted permission to conduct lectures via Zoom technology when necessary.
Addressing concerns regarding fuel availability, he clarified that there is no shortage of fuel in the country. However, there are certain issues with the QR system, which are expected to be resolved in the near future.
He further assured that the country currently has sufficient fuel reserves for one month and confirmed that four additional fuel shipments are scheduled to arrive soon.
