The Sri Lanka Army has deployed its troops to government hospitals across the country today (Feb. 13), in order to ensure uninterrupted access to essential healthcare services amidst an island-wide strike launched by health sector trade unions this morning.

The troops have been swiftly deployed to various healthcare facilities nationwide, under the directives of the Ministry of Defence and the guidance of the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, after a request was made by the Ministry of Health seeking assistance in managing the situation effectively.

Currently, nearly 900 troops have been deployed under the full supervision of respective Security Forces Commanders to maintain the daily operations of 48 hospitals, including Colombo and Kandy National Hospitals, Kalubowila, Karapitiya, Mahamodara, Peradeniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala Teaching Hospitals, as well as the Eye Hospital Colombo and hospitals in Matale, Polonnaruwa, Medirigiriya, Higurakgoda, Batticaloa, Dehiattakandiya, Hambantota, Debarawewa, Ratnapura, Balangoda, Eheliyagoda, Nawalapitiya, Badulla, Elpitiya, Homagama, and Kegalle, without interruption.

Army personnel have been stationed at various hospitals under the vigilant supervision of the respective Security Forces Commanders. This proactive measure aims to provide crucial support and maintain the seamless operation of healthcare services, the Army said. Troops also remain on standby to deploy swiftly in case of emergencies.