The strike against the functioning of SAITM commenced at 8.00 am today (05).

Assistant Secretary of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), Dr. Haritha Aluthge stated that the functioning of several services including hospitals would be halted on account of the strike.

He also stated that despite doctors and health officials being on strike, essential services and emergency services would still be made available.

Dr. Haritha Aluthge also said that they were willing to call off the strike any time they receive favourable solutions.

The Director-General of Health Services stated that if services such as the issuing of medication were to be disrupted by the strike, alternatives would be made available.

Meanwhile, the Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union stated that officials of two grades of the Railway Department would be taking part in the strike.

Its Chief Secretary stated that most trains would be inactive from 8.00 am onwards on account of the strike.

The Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association (PBOA) stated that if railway transport was hindered, alternative transportation would be made available for the public. President of the PBOA stated that they would not be taking part in the strike.

All Island Transport Union, a representative of the Sri Lanka Transport Board, also announced that they would not be partaking in the strike, but added that they were against the functioning of SAITM and would be participating in any future strikes.