The union of Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) said there was a possibility for COVID19 spread due to the opening of government institutions in areas where travel restrictions have been imposed.

PHI Union President Upul Rohana said that the government agencies in areas where traffic was restricted should be closed as it could spread the virus.

However, the government is forced to operate at least some government offices in the lockdown areas to ensure that essential services remain uninterrupted despite the ongoing restrictions.

Meanwhile, a large number of daily wage earners in these lockdown areas Colombo took to streets last week demanding immediate relief. They blamed that the protracted lockdown has affected their livelihoods.

PHIs have further pointed out that the spread of the COVID19 among fishermen living in Puttalam is increasing rapidly.

Public health inspectors also urge fishermen to be vigilant in their fishing activities and to adhere to strict hygiene practices.

Amidst concerns raised by some sections of the health circles, the government today lifted isolation in some areas in Colombo and Gampaha.

The Pettah, Foreshore, and Mattakkuliya police areas of the Colombo Districts and the Negombo and Ragama police areas of the Gampaha District will no longer be in isolation from 5 AM tomorrow.

However, the following areas of Colombo and Gampaha Districts will remain under isolation until further notice:

Colombo District: Modara, Bloemendhal, Kotahena, Grandpass, Aduruppu Street, Dam Street, Keselwatta, Maligawatta, Dematagoda, and Maradana police areas and Wekanda, and Wanatamulla Grama Niladari Divisions.

Gampaha District: Wattala, Peliyagoda, and Kelaniya police areas

Meanwhile, the following areas have been declared newly isolated areas form 5.00 am tomorrow:

Mattakuliya police area: Randiya Uya housing scheme South of Ferguson Road area

Wellampitiya police area: Laksanda Sevana housing scheme