The minister visited the Port premises yesterday (20) and spent around five hours there looking into their facilities and ensuring that the port workers' safety is guaranteed if they are to continue working during the curfew period. Accordingly, the minister instructed the Ports and Shipping and Highways Ministry Secretary Priyantha Mayadunne and Port Authority Chairman General Daya Ratnayaketo ensure safe working conditions for the port workers and to ensure the safe transportation facilities.All Port workers have been granted permission to enter the port premises in their private vehicles by producing their national identity cards and office IDs.
For the convenience of the workers seven (07) entry points have been established.
1.Kandy Road – up to Kegalle
2.Galle Road- Aluthgama
3.High level Road – Meepe Junction
4.Minuwangoda Road – Divulapitiya via Ja-Ela
5.Horana Road - Horana
6.Old Road Hanwella - Avissawella
7.Kelaniya Vihara Road – Kirindiwela
Minister Johnston Fernando urged the public not to panic as all goods related to essential services and health services are being brought into the country and distributed without any hindrance.