The government has decided to convert the closed Gampaha Werellawatta Polytex Garments Factory to a Covid-19 treatment center at a cost of Rs.10 million, and its construction commenced yesterday ceremonially (03).

Following a request made by Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga, the Governor of the Western Provincial Council Roshan Goonetilleke has agreed to provide Rs.10 million for the construction work.

In order to expedite the construction, a team of 70 naval officers has already been deployed.

Upon completion, the treatment center will have facilities including about 2000 beds, emergency treatment, oxygen supply, and sanitary facilities. It will also have 40 doctors, 50 nurses, and 55 staff.

Yesterday responding to a question raised by the media as to whether Parliament should convene at a time when meetings are prohibited, the Tourism Minister said that Parliament is required to convene in order to implement the finance bills required for the administration of the country. Therefore, the Speaker has taken steps to convene the Parliament by reducing the number of employees as per the health instructions, the Minister added.

Member of Parliament Sahan Pradeep, Gampaha District Secretary Sunil Jayalath, Gampaha Regional Health Services Director, and Gampaha Regional Engineer were also present at this occasion.