SLPA launches guideline for eradicating COVID-19

Monday, 18 May 2020 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) General Daya Ratnayake addressing the gathering at the launch of the ‘SLPA Guideline for Eradicating COVID-19’

The first copy of the ‘SLPA Guideline for Eradicating COVID-19’ being presented to Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Chairman General Daya Ratnayake

SLPA executive officers who participated in the preparation of the ‘SLPA Guideline for Eradicating COVID-19’ with SLPA Chairman General Daya Ratnayake

Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s Guideline for Eradicating COVID-19 was launched on 14 May, to maintain the safety of all those efficiently and effectively involved in the port›s operations. The event was held at the Mahapola Ports and Maritime Academy (MPMA) under the patronage of General Daya Ratnayake, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).

Expressing views on the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been handled successfully so far in Sri Lanka, SLPA Chairman General Daya Ratnayake said that since the outbreak of the virus, much before its arrival in Sri Lanka, the President had recognised the seriousness of the health issue. “The situation has now been managed successfully, but the pandemic has presented long-lasting challenges. Collective support is very important to overcome such challenges. This is not something that can be done by an individual or a specific group. We all have the same responsibility to overcome prevailing challenges due to this pandemic,» he said.

He also said that it was imperative to expedite the process for the future development of the port. “The port is the heart of the nation, the pivotal centre of the country. We have many challenges and opportunities as a result of this pandemic. To seize those opportunities, we have to work together with the utmost dedication,” he added. He also said that the support of all is an essential requirement at the very moment.

Addressing the gathering to brief on the objectives of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s Guideline for Eradicating COVID-19, SLPA Additional Managing Director Upali de Zoysa said that the institution’s foremost objective was to ensure the safety of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and all those involved in the operations of the ports.

The first copy of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s Guideline for Eradicating COVID-19 was presented to SLPA Chairman General Daya Ratnayake. On the advice of the top management and divisional heads, the guideline was prepared by a team of higher executive officers of the SLPA, headed by SLPA’s Additional Managing Director Upali de Zoysa. SLPA Managing Director Captain Athula Hewavitharana and several other senior officials of the authority were also present on the occasion.