In response to a strike initiated by 72 health unions in government hospitals, the Sri Lanka Army has mobilized troops across various government hospitals nationwide to ensure the continuity of operational activities.
The Ministry of Health, in light of the ongoing strike, sought assistance from the Ministry of Defence to guarantee uninterrupted hospital functions during this period of industrial action.
Acting upon the directives of the Commander of the Army, Lt. General Vikum Liyanage, troops have been dispatched to 26 government hospitals. Notable institutions among them include the National Hospitals in Colombo and Kandy, Kalubowila, Karapitiya, Mahmodara, Peradeniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala Teaching Hospitals. Additionally, troops have been deployed to Matara, Balangoda, Eheliyagoda, Nawalapitiya, Badulla, Gampola, Meerigama, Homagama, and Kegalle Hospitals.
The Army has confirmed the deployment of 700 personnel to address the operational requirements of these hospitals. Furthermore, the Army Commander has issued instructions for additional troops to be on standby, ready for deployment in case of any emergencies that may arise.
