Revisions were yesterday made to COVID-19 regulations applicable to public and work-related activities and these will be effective until 31 December.

While Health Services Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena on Wednesday said no significant changes are expected, the revised guidelines state that the maximum capacity at weddings is 50% of the venue. The restrictions on the serving of alcohol at weddings are not included in the revised guidelines.

Persons are requested to avoid unnecessary travel and virtual meetings for official, corporate and professional meetings and events are encouraged. However, these meetings and events can also take place in a physical setting with a capacity limit of 50% of the venue.

Private gatherings can take place with a maximum of 50% of the venue capacity, but gatherings at a private house must be limited to ten persons. Outdoor private gatherings are not permitted.

Economic centres are open for wholesale trade and economic centres as well as weekend markets, open markets and mobile vendors can operate under strict supervision of local authorities and the area medical officer of health (MOH).

Industries can carry out operations according to guidelines issued.

Dining in at restaurants is limited to 50% of the usual capacity and up to 150 persons are allowed outdoors.

A 50% capacity limit applies to shops, groceries, pharmacies and supermarkets. Financial institutes can remain open but should be restricted to 25 people.

Barbers, salons and tailors can see customers on appointment basis.

Reopening of schools will be decided by the Education Ministry, while the University Grants Commission (UGC) will decide on the reopening of higher education institutes, including universities. Physical attendance at examinations is permitted with strict adherence to health guidelines.

Daycare centres and preschools will remain open. Vocational training institutes can operate at 75% capacity. Tuition classes can operate for O/L and A/L grades at 50% capacity.

Courts can function under the guidance of Judicial Service Commission Secretariat.

Cinemas and theatres can operate at 75% capacity. Gyms can remain open and sporting activities are allowed without spectators.

Funerals can take place with a maximum of 30 persons at a time and individual worshipping is permitted at places of worship.

Exhibitions and conventions are permitted with strict adherence to health guidelines, with 50% capacity at a time.

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