Regulations on COVID-19 health guidelines pertaining to public gatherings and meetings under the Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance (Chapter 222) were amended through a Gazette issued on Tuesday.

The regulations state that the guidelines, circulars, directions, instructions or terms and conditions issued, given or specified by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), the proper authority for the whole of Sri Lanka, shall supersede guidelines issued by any other proper authorities.

According to the Gazette, the Director General of Health Services may determine the place, setting and structure of a gathering, activity, event or similar place of meeting and the maximum number of participants or allowable capacity within or outside a locality in relation to COVID-19 for a period determined by the DGHS.

Persons are not permitted to take part in any gathering, event, or similar place of meeting in contravention of this sub-regulation.

“We have not given approval for gatherings or meetings and our permission must be received to hold gatherings or meetings. People gathering can be a reason for COVID-19 spread and our sole effort is to prevent this,” DGHS Dr. Asela Gunawardena said.

He added that approval will be given depending on the COVID-19 situation in the area as well as the country and that legal action can be taken against persons who do not adhere to these regulations.

• 715 persons test positive for COVID-19

• 30,020 persons vaccinated against COVID-19

• 19 COVID-19 fatalities confirmed