By M D P DISSANAYAKE

The numbers of positive Covid cases have increased rapidly during past 2 months.   We are fast reaching 1000 positives cases per day within next week or two.

The resources of health authorities  have been stretched to near break-down levels.  The public co-operation for the adherence of health and safety guidelines is waning.  The security forces are overworked, arrest of persons for violating Rules are creating further unrest in the society.  

A pandemic  of this proportion cannot be ignored just by media announcements  and police arrests.  The current system need breathing space, where  health and security officers need to revisit the existing policies and administrative arrangements.

In the meantime, the government must declare complete Lockdown forthwith together with offer financial  and food subsidy assistance to the vast community.  At least 3 weeks lockdown could possibly save the nation from disaster.

It is true  nations like Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Germany have not yet imported any vaccinations, whereas a poor country like Sri Lanka has taken initial steps to look after its people.   Singapore Prime Minister and the Ministers of Cabinet received the first dosage of vaccinations, quoting, we need to prove it is safe”.

The next shipment of vaccinations are not due till April-May,  the government need to arrest the rapidly increasing trend by enforcing a complete Lockdown immediately. We need to bring the casualty numbers within controllable limits, whilst expediting the arrival of vaccinations.