Navy to block possible crossings of Bolgoda Lake by Atulugama residents

• SLN’s Rapid Action Boat Squadron deployed in adjacent areas of Bolgoda Lake

The Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) yesterday said it has taken swift measures to thwart possible attempts to cross Bolgoda Lake by bordering Atulugama residents.

The area has been placed under a total lockdown and all residents have been advised to remain quarantined. The Navy has deployed its Rapid Action Boat Squadron (RABS) at the adjacent areas of Bolgoda Lake from Sunday to prevent any crossings.

Following information received from various sources on attempts to cross the area over the Bolgoda Lake for day-to-day activities by the residents, SLN has deployed two patrol boats at the Kimmanthudawa area in Atulugama which is more vulnerable for crossovers to other areas.

Navy spokesman Lt. Com. Isuru Sooriyabandara said there were no such noticeable attempts so far due to the Navy’s presence.

“Our naval patrol boats will continue to monitor the area and no one will be allowed for boat rides and travels to other areas until further notice,” he said.       

Recently (March 28) travel restrictions within Atulugama area was strictly imposed following to a discovery of father and his sister tested positive for COVID-19.

Steps have been initiated to close eight crossroads with possible accesses into the village and the surrounding areas are also cordoned while placing Police roadblocks by the local government authorities.

The patient was a returnee from abroad and he was reported to have visited a number of residents in the village recently. Some of the suspected persons who associated with the patient were also taken by the health authorities for further investigations.

Some of the villages in the close proximity to Atulugama in the Kalutara district have also 

been declared as out of bound for the regional community.