As Normalcy Returns, PTF Evaluates Next Courses of Action- NOCPCO

The Presidential Task Force (PTF) at Rajagiriya National Operation Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO), attended by Mrs Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Hon Minister of Health, Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva, Head of the NOCPCO, Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army and Dr Anil Jasinghe, Director General of Health Services this afternoon (10) had one more review of the status quo of COVID-19 transmission and control, re-opening and normalcy schedules in the country and related logistics, connected to such procedures, etc together with experts and stakeholders.

Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva welcomed PTF members and guests before all in the meeting evaluated updates, and the overall picture of the epidemic in the country

Discussions primarily focused on the implementation of new health procedures, improvements that should be added at the airport premises with the establishment of a venue for conduct of PCR tests upon arrival of passengers as well as the minimal exposure of airport staffers to foreign arrivals. Opening and maintenance of public institutes and services in keeping with health guidelines were also taken up for review and evaluation at this meeting. It was agreed that respective consultations should be done with relevant Ministries, Heads of respective institutes and Health authorities when it matters with the opening of the tourist sector, etc, the attendees maintained.

Possibilities of bringing down expatriates stranded in high risk Middle East capitals were also extensively evaluated as authorities in Lebonon, Qatar and the UAE have consented to conduct PCR tests on those Sri Lankans before they are flown home.

The attention was also centred on revising of standard operational procedures as regards heroic sailors since there prevails a marked decrease of cluster transmission of the virus as of now. Relaxation of restrictions on routine Army leave was also taken up for decision since ground developments are fast improving. Conduct of religious events and tuition classes with restricted attendance and adhering to strict health guidelines were also reviewed during the discussions.

PTF members also underlined the need to accept foreign arrivals under a well-devised plan while addressing strategically relevant priorities. Discussions also centred on other general concerns as regards the speedy return of normalcy to the public life, economic spheres, etc.

Former Governor for Western Province, Dr Seetha Arambepola, Additional Secretary to the Preident for Foreign Relations Admiral (retd) Jayanath Kolambage, Chairman, Sri Lanka Ports Authority, General (retd) Daya Ratnayake, Directors, Senior Tri Service Officers and a few other experts were also associated with the day's discussions.

Source: www.army.lk