Mass gatherings

The Sunday Times checked out mass gatherings in Sri Lanka to see what measures are being taken to prevent the spread of disease.

With Sri Lanka hosting two Test matches with England this month at the Galle International Stadium (from March 19 to 23) and at the R. Premadasa Stadium (from March 27 to 31), Sri Lanka Cricket sources said there would be around 10-15,000 spectators and it would not be possible to check everyone.

There have not been any cancellations from travel agents with regard to those coming from abroad for these matches, the source added.

Meanwhile, the Kachchativu feast took place on March 7 with about 7,000 Sri Lankans converging on this island by boat from the north and northwestern areas of the country and about 3,000 Indian from Tamilnadu, said Sri Lanka Navy Spokesman, Lieutenant Commander Isuru Suriyabandara.

Health checks were carried out on those who attended the feast, it is learnt.