The Government of Sri Lanka has decided to establish four high-level special committees and declare every Wednesday a public holiday to ensure the continuity of essential services and public life amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking at a special media briefing at the Department of Government Information on Monday (16), Commissioner General of Essential Services Prabath Chandrakeerthi announced that these measures aim to proactively manage energy resources and maintain state services.

Strategic Oversight Committees

To streamline the national response, the government has appointed the following committees:

  • State Services Committee: Chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, tasked with overseeing the overall functioning of the public sector.

  • Energy Affairs Committee: Chaired by Minister Vijitha Herath, focused on managing fuel and power resources.

  • Essential Goods Distribution Committee: Chaired by Minister Bimal Rathnayake, responsible for ensuring the steady supply of food and medicine.

  • Social Welfare Committee: Chaired by Minister Upali Pannilage, focused on safeguarding vulnerable groups during the crisis.

New Working Arrangements and Suspensions

As part of an emergency energy-saving drive, the following changes have been implemented with immediate effect:

  • Mid-Week Holiday: Every Wednesday is declared a public holiday for the state sector, including schools, universities, and the judiciary. Essential services—including health, ports, water supply, and customs—are exempt.

  • Flexible Workweek: For the remaining four working days, heads of state institutions have been granted the authority to decide on the necessary staff required to report for duty.

  • Event Suspension: All government-organized functions and ceremonies are suspended until further notice.

Mr. Chandrakeerthi reassured the public that the country currently maintains sufficient fuel reserves. However, these measures have been taken to mitigate potential future shocks caused by global supply chain disruptions. Further updates regarding school schedules are expected in the coming days.