<p>Sri Lanka is currently facing one of the worst-ever economic crises in the country's history. There has been a shortage of essential supplies, and fuel while regular power cuts have continuously troubled the people in the ongoing difficult times. People are struggling to get petrol for their vehicles and are waiting in queues for hours at fuel stations.</p>

<p>While the economic crisis has led to soaring inflation and a shortage of supply, the country is also dealing with political instability. No one has been left unaffected as even the celebrities in the country are dealing with similar issues as any other common man.</p>

<p>Recently, Sri Lankan cricketer Chamika Karunaratne opened up on his struggles to get fuel for his vehicle. He revealed he had to wait in a queue outside a fuel station for a couple of days in order to get his vehicle refilled. The all-rounder was part of the recently-concluded series between Australia in Sri Lanka in the island nation.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1000-days-without-an-international-century-can-virat-kohli-avoid-unwanted-feat-in-3rd-odi-against-england-497948">1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England</a></p>

<p>Karunaratne said he has to travel to several different places in the next few days for training and to play matches as the domestic season is on but there is a fuel crisis in the country at present. "We've to go for practices in Colombo &amp; to different other places as club cricket season is on but I've been standing in queue for fuel for past 2 days. I got it filled for Rs 10,000 which will last 2-3 days..," the Sri Lankan cricketer told Indian news agency ANI.</p>

<p>He also went on to thank India for its support to Sri Lanka in time of crisis and said India has been like a brother to his country. "India is like a brother country &amp; they are helping us a lot. I thank them so much. We have problems. They are supporting us when we are struggling. Thank you so much for that. Thank you for everything. We will get better and better," Karunaratne added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-should-have-responded-shahid-afridi-reacts-to-babar-azams-tweet-for-kohli-amid-his-woeful-form-497898">'Virat should have responded': Shahid Afridi reacts to Babar Azam's tweet for Kohli amid his woeful form</a></p>

<p>However, despite the tough situation in the country, Sri Lanka recently successfully hosted Australia for a full-fledged tour consisting of 3 T20Is, 5 ODIs and two Test matches. While Australia clinched the T20I series 2-1, Sri Lanka bagged the ODI series 3-2 before the two-match Test series ended in a 1-1 draw.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Sri Lanka is currently facing one of the worst-ever economic crises in the country's history. There has been a shortage of essential supplies, and fuel while regular power cuts have continuously troubled the people in the ongoing difficult times.

Sri Lanka is currently facing one of the worst-ever economic crises in the country's history. There has been a shortage of essential supplies, and fuel while regular power cuts have continuously troubled the people in the ongoing difficult times. People are struggling to get petrol for their vehicles and are waiting in queues for hours at fuel stations. While the economic crisis has led to soaring inflation and a shortage of supply, the country is also dealing with political instability. No one has been left unaffected as even the celebrities in the country are dealing with similar issues as any other common man. Recently, Sri Lankan cricketer Chamika Karunaratne opened up on his struggles to get fuel for his vehicle. He revealed he had to wait in a queue outside a fuel station for a couple of days in order to get his vehicle refilled. The all-rounder was part of the recently-concluded series between Australia in Sri Lanka in the island nation. Also Read: 1,000 days without an international century? Can Kohli avoid unwanted feat in 3rd ODI against England Karunaratne said he has to travel to several different places in the next few days for training and to play matches as the domestic season is on but there is a fuel crisis in the country at present. "We've to go for practices in Colombo & to different other places as club cricket season is on but I've been standing in queue for fuel for past 2 days. I got it filled for Rs 10,000 which will last 2-3 days..," the Sri Lankan cricketer told Indian news agency ANI. He also went on to thank India for its support to Sri Lanka in time of crisis and said India has been like a brother to his country. "India is like a brother country & they are helping us a lot. I thank them so much. We have problems. They are supporting us when we are struggling. Thank you so much for that. Thank you for everything. We will get better and better," Karunaratne added. Also Read: 'Virat should have responded': Shahid Afridi reacts to Babar Azam's tweet for Kohli amid his woeful form However, despite the tough situation in the country, Sri Lanka recently successfully hosted Australia for a full-fledged tour consisting of 3 T20Is, 5 ODIs and two Test matches. While Australia clinched the T20I series 2-1, Sri Lanka bagged the ODI series 3-2 before the two-match Test series ended in a 1-1 draw.

'Standing in queue for past 2 days': Sri Lankan cricketer Chamika Karunaratne struggles for fuel in country

Gotabaya Rajapaksa is on the run. But his brother Mahinda Rajapaksa has decided to stay in Sri Lanka. Reports say, he is already planning his next comeback. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: The Rajapaksas are planning a comeback already

WION's Dasuni Athauda spoke to the former energy minister of Sri Lanka Udaya Gammanpila on the power vaccum and the way forward for the island nation. He was also part of the all-party meeting which took place. Listen in

There are three potential candidates for President's position, says Udaya Gammanpila

<p>US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has called for a peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries of the country’s constitution and stated that the US condemns all forms of violence and urges that the rule of law be followed, she said in a tweet. Additionally, the US ambassador urged the political parties to cooperate in order to provide long-term political and economic stability to the country. "We urge all parties to approach this juncture with a commitment to the betterment of the nation and to work quickly to implement solutions that will bring long-term economic &amp; political stability,” Chung said in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">(2/2) We condemn all violence &amp; call for the rule of law to be upheld. A peaceful transfer of power within SL’s democratic &amp; constitutional framework is essential so the people’s demands for accountability, transparency, democratic governance &amp; a better future can be realized.</p>
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<p>Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives on Wednesday (July 13), after an uprising sparked by the island nation’s economic collapse, and is currently waiting to fly further to Singapore amid the crisis. The Speaker of the House announced Rajapaksa’s resignation. The president was forced to evacuate with the navy and tender his resignation after Sri Lankan protesters stormed his house and wouldn’t leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-state-broadcaster-stops-live-telecast-as-protests-intensify-497154">Sri Lanka state broadcaster stops live telecast as protests intensify</a></strong></p>

<p>Ranil Wickremesinghe, the former prime minister of the country and current acting president, has announced a state of emergency and enforced it in the Western province. However, in the midst of Sri Lanka’s continuous unrest and crises, Wickremesinghe also declared his intention to resign from his position.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India denies helping Gotabaya escape</strong></p>

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<p>Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has announced that he intends to run for the presidency after Rajapaksa’s resignation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-during-protests-a-picture-of-a-couple-kissing-goes-viral-497109">Sri Lanka crisis: During protests, a picture of a couple kissing goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>Numerous stories of clashes between the Sri Lankans and police and armed forces at petrol stations have been reported, where thousands of desperate people lined up for hours and often for days, have surfaced as a result of the country’s deteriorating economic situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has called for a peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries of the country’s constitution and stated that the US condemns all forms of violence and urges that the rule of law be followed, she said in a tweet.

US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has called for a peaceful transfer of power within the boundaries of the country’s constitution and stated that the US condemns all forms of violence and urges that the rule of law be followed, she said in a tweet. Additionally, the US ambassador urged the political parties to cooperate in order to provide long-term political and economic stability to the country. "We urge all parties to approach this juncture with a commitment to the betterment of the nation and to work quickly to implement solutions that will bring long-term economic & political stability,” Chung said in a tweet. (2/2) We condemn all violence & call for the rule of law to be upheld. A peaceful transfer of power within SL’s democratic & constitutional framework is essential so the people’s demands for accountability, transparency, democratic governance & a better future can be realized. — Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) July 13, 2022 × Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives on Wednesday (July 13), after an uprising sparked by the island nation’s economic collapse, and is currently waiting to fly further to Singapore amid the crisis. The Speaker of the House announced Rajapaksa’s resignation. The president was forced to evacuate with the navy and tender his resignation after Sri Lankan protesters stormed his house and wouldn’t leave. Also read | Sri Lanka state broadcaster stops live telecast as protests intensify Ranil Wickremesinghe, the former prime minister of the country and current acting president, has announced a state of emergency and enforced it in the Western province. However, in the midst of Sri Lanka’s continuous unrest and crises, Wickremesinghe also declared his intention to resign from his position. Watch | Gravitas: India denies helping Gotabaya escape Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has announced that he intends to run for the presidency after Rajapaksa’s resignation. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis: During protests, a picture of a couple kissing goes viral Numerous stories of clashes between the Sri Lankans and police and armed forces at petrol stations have been reported, where thousands of desperate people lined up for hours and often for days, have surfaced as a result of the country’s deteriorating economic situation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka crisis: US demands peaceful transfer of power as per constitution

Protesters in Sri Lanka defied tear gas, water cannon and a state of emergency to storm the prime minister's office on Wednesday after the president fled overseas. Molly Gambhir and Dasuni Athauda tell you how the day unfolded into chaos.

Sri Lanka on edge after President Gotabaya flees | Crisis triggers chaos in Colombo again

Known as "The Terminator" for his ruthless crushing of the LTTE to end a decades-long civil war, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's rule is drawing to a close with him a fugitive and his island's economy in ruins. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | The rise and fall of Sri Lanka's Gotabaya Rajapaksa

WION Fineprint | Sri Lankan protesters storm PM's office

<p>Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the president of Sri Lanka, fled to the Maldives, where he named Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as acting president. This escalated the political crisis and set off a new round of protests in the nation, which is currently experiencing the worst financial crisis in decades.&nbsp;During the protests, a couple was seen kissing in public after participating in anti-government demonstrations that resulted in the Prime Minister's office being taken over in Colombo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NewsWire shared this picture on Twitter with the this captions:&nbsp;"Couple goals! A couple was seen displaying affection after participating in anti-government protests that led to the taking over of the Prime Minister's office in Colombo."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Couple goals!<br />
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A couple was seen displaying affection after participating in anti-government protests that led to the taking over of the Prime Minister's office in Colombo. <a href="https://t.co/mpPG1y2fvD">pic.twitter.com/mpPG1y2fvD</a></p>
— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsWireLK/status/1547166536913207296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Invoking Article 37(1) of the Constitution, which permits a prime minister to "discharge the powers, duties and functions of the office of president" when the president is "ill" or "absent" from the country, Rajapaksa, the 73-year-old leader who had pledged to step down on Wednesday, named Prime Minister Wickremesinghe as the acting president.</p>

<p>President Rajapaksa has appointed Wickremesinghe to act in the president's place while he is away from home, according to Parliament Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena. Abeywardena added that President Rajapaksa had telephoned him to let him know that he would leave office today as planned.</p>

<p>He said that July 20 will be the election day for the incoming president. As demonstrators gathered close to Wickremesinghe's office on Flower Road in Colombo, the country's acting president, announced a state of emergency and enforced a curfew in the Western province.</p>

<p>According to Wickremesinghe, in order to restore normalcy, he has directed the security forces to uphold the emergency and curfew. He added that a committee made up of the leaders of the armed forces has been granted the authority to do this without any political interference. In addition, he promised to resign as prime minister once an all-party coalition was established.</p>

<p>Anti-government protestors, however, were incensed by the event and demanded the resignation of both the President and Prime Minister for handling the economy poorly. Thousands of demonstrators surrounded the PM Office building while waving flags of Sri Lanka, defying the state of emergency. When protesters invaded the prime minister's office and climbed over a barricade to demand his resignation, the police opened fire with tear gas.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the president of Sri Lanka, fled to the Maldives, where he named Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as acting president. This escalated the political crisis and set off a new round of protests in the nation, which is currently experiencing the worst financial crisis in decades.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the president of Sri Lanka, fled to the Maldives, where he named Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as acting president. This escalated the political crisis and set off a new round of protests in the nation, which is currently experiencing the worst financial crisis in decades. During the protests, a couple was seen kissing in public after participating in anti-government demonstrations that resulted in the Prime Minister's office being taken over in Colombo. NewsWire shared this picture on Twitter with the this captions: "Couple goals! A couple was seen displaying affection after participating in anti-government protests that led to the taking over of the Prime Minister's office in Colombo." Couple goals! A couple was seen displaying affection after participating in anti-government protests that led to the taking over of the Prime Minister's office in Colombo. pic.twitter.com/mpPG1y2fvD — NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) July 13, 2022 × Invoking Article 37(1) of the Constitution, which permits a prime minister to "discharge the powers, duties and functions of the office of president" when the president is "ill" or "absent" from the country, Rajapaksa, the 73-year-old leader who had pledged to step down on Wednesday, named Prime Minister Wickremesinghe as the acting president. President Rajapaksa has appointed Wickremesinghe to act in the president's place while he is away from home, according to Parliament Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena. Abeywardena added that President Rajapaksa had telephoned him to let him know that he would leave office today as planned. He said that July 20 will be the election day for the incoming president. As demonstrators gathered close to Wickremesinghe's office on Flower Road in Colombo, the country's acting president, announced a state of emergency and enforced a curfew in the Western province. According to Wickremesinghe, in order to restore normalcy, he has directed the security forces to uphold the emergency and curfew. He added that a committee made up of the leaders of the armed forces has been granted the authority to do this without any political interference. In addition, he promised to resign as prime minister once an all-party coalition was established. Anti-government protestors, however, were incensed by the event and demanded the resignation of both the President and Prime Minister for handling the economy poorly. Thousands of demonstrators surrounded the PM Office building while waving flags of Sri Lanka, defying the state of emergency. When protesters invaded the prime minister's office and climbed over a barricade to demand his resignation, the police opened fire with tear gas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka crisis: During protests, a picture of a couple kissing goes viral

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa & his brother Basil Rajapaksa tried to leave Sri Lanka. Reports claim - immigration officials stopped them from boarding their flights. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Gotabaya Rajapaksa "desperate" to leave Sri Lanka

Today may be the last night of the Sri Lanka protests as President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to resign tomorrow.

Sri Lanka Crisis: Protesters to head home after Rajapaksa resigns

Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa was stuck in his own country on Tuesday in a humiliating standoff with airport immigration staff blocking his exit to safety abroad. WION's Dasuni Athauda brings you more insights.

Reports: Immigration standoff prevents Gotabaya Rajapaksa from leaving Sri Lanka

<p>In June, a few dozen activists started meeting regularly at a seaside tented camp in Colombo for hours-long sessions to think up ways to revive Sri Lanka`s flagging protest movement.<br />
<br />
The group, which included a Catholic priest, a digital strategist and a popular playwright, succeeded beyond their wildest hopes.<br />
<br />
Within weeks, hundreds of thousands of people descended on Colombo. After initially clashing with police, protesters occupied key government buildings and residences, forcing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his prime minister to promise to step down.<br />
<br />
"I`m still trying to process it," said Chameera Dedduwage, a digital strategist at a major advertising firm who became part of the team that helped organise the uprising.<br />
<br />
"It was 50 percent premeditation and coordination, another 30 percent willingness of the people and 20 percent luck."<br />
<br />
In interviews, veterans of those small meetings described how they agreed on a multi-pronged campaign to inject new life into the movement widely known as "Aragalaya", or "struggle" in Sinhala.<br />
<br />
The movement had begun in March, when thousands took to the streets to vent their anger at lengthy power cuts and spiralling prices, and to call for the Rajapaksa family that had dominated the country`s politics for much of the last 20 years to leave power.<br />
<br />
On May 9, Rajapaksa`s elder brother Mahinda - president from 2005-2015 and at that time serving as prime minister - had stepped down. On June 9, younger brother Basil had quit as a lawmaker.<br />
<br />
So, the Aragalaya activists targeted July 9 as the day they hoped to unseat the president himself.<br />
<br />
A plan emerged to combine online agitation, meetings with political parties, labour unions and student groups and door-to-door campaigning to get enough people back on the streets for a final push, according to the three attendees.<br />
<br />
Public frustration at ongoing shortages, which has brought the economy to a standstill, and the president`s stubborn refusal to step aside, had been simmering for weeks.<br />
<br />
Riding on trains, buses, lorries and bicycles, or simply walking, huge crowds converged on Colombo on Saturday, outnumbering security forces deployed to protect government buildings and upending Sri Lankan politics.<br />
<br />
"Gota Go Home!" the crowds chanted in Colombo`s Fort area, seething over the country`s worst economic crisis since independence.<br />
<br />
They quickly broke into the president`s colonial-era house, before storming a portion of the presidential office and entering the prime minister`s official residence 2.5 km (1.6 miles) away.<br />
<br />
Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had been moved to undisclosed safe locations, and within hours they separately announced they would resign to allow an all-party interim government to take over.<br />
<br />
If he resigns on Wednesday as promised, Rajapaksa, once a war hero who was both revered and feared, will become the first sitting Sri Lankan president to quit.<br />
<br />
"I think it is the most unprecedented gathering in this country. Full stop," Ruwanthie de Chickera, a playwright who is part of the core group of Aragalaya activists, told Reuters.<br />
<br />
Representatives of the president and prime minister did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the protests and why they stepped aside. Their whereabouts have not been made public.<br />
<br />
<strong>'EVERYONE ON BOARD'</strong><br />
<br />
Sri Lanka has around 5 million households and 8 million active Facebook accounts, making online outreach an extremely effective way to reach demonstrators, said Dedduwage, the digital strategist.<br />
<br />
"Which means basically through Facebook, we can practically reach every corner of the country at no cost," Dedduwage told Reuters, sitting at a tent at "Gota Go Village", the main Colombo protest site that mockingly refers to the president.<br />
<br />
In early July, one of those who received the group`s social media messages was Sathya Charith Amaratunge, a marketing professional living in Moratuwa, some 20 km from Colombo, who had taken part in earlier anti-government protests.<br />
<br />
The 35-year-old took a poster he received via WhatsApp on July 2 that read "The Country to Colombo, July 9" in Sinhala, and uploaded it on his personal Facebook page.<br />
<br />
That night he began preparing a campaign that would eventually see tens of thousands of people join him on a march to Colombo.<br />
<br />
Other Aragalaya members reached out directly to opposition political parties, trade unions and student unions, including the influential Inter University Students` Federation (IUSF), in order to bolster support, according to Dedduwage.<br />
<br />
One of Sri Lanka`s largest student groups, the IUSF has a reputation for its political agitation and clashed with security forces during recent protests, dismantling police barricades amid teargas and water cannon.<br />
<br />
The Aragalaya group also asked volunteers to visit thousands of homes across parts of Colombo, including middle-class government housing estates, some within walking distance of the main protest site.<br />
<br />
To bring people in from outside the city, activists appealed to more than 30 "Gota Go Village" sites that had sprung up in towns and cities across the country.<br />
<br />
Late on July 8, police declared a curfew in several districts around Colombo, which activists said was aimed at stalling the planned protest. Police said the move was to maintain public order. Some core group members swiftly moved to safe houses, fearing arrest.<br />
<br />
Jeevanth Peiris, a Catholic priest who is part of the activist group, worried that only a few thousand people would turn up the next day because of the restrictions. Fuel shortages had curtailed transport options for weeks.<br />
<br />
"We honestly expected only 10,000 with all these restrictions, all this intimidation," he told Reuters, dressed in a white cassock. "We thought 5,000 to 10,000."<br />
<br />
<strong>'PEOPLE DIDN`T WANT TO GIVE UP'</strong><br />
<br />
Early on July 9, marketing professional Amaratunge said he started off on foot from Moratuwa with around 2,000 fellow protesters, about the size of group he had expected after a week of sharing posts on Facebook and WhatsApp.<br />
<br />
It was only when he left his hometown that Amaratunge said he realised how many people wanted to go to Colombo. Many had been angered by the curfew, which the police withdrew early on Saturday.<br />
<br />
In multiple Facebook livestreams posted by Amaratunge on Saturday, several hundred people can be seen strolling down the main road to Colombo, some holding the national flag.<br />
<br />
By Amaratunge`s estimate, tens of thousands eventually joined the march he was on, and reached Colombo`s fort area. According to a police official who spoke on condition of anonymity, the crowd there swelled to at least 200,000 people.<br />
<br />
Members of the Aragalaya core group said several times that number took part, as wave upon wave of people arrived in Colombo and marched towards the main protest site.<br />
<br />
Organisers had roughly calculated that it would take around 10,000 people to overpower personnel guarding each of the four entry points to the president`s house, Dedduwage said.<br />
<br />
In the early afternoon, after dismantling police barricades and commandeering water cannon, protesters took apart the tall gates guarding the president`s house and overwhelmed a large deployment of security forces.<br />
<br />
By night, Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe`s official residences were occupied by protesters, who uprooted fences outside the presidential secretariat and took over a part of it. Wickremesinghe`s personal residence was attacked and a section of it set alight.<br />
<br />
Within hours, the leaders were ready to go.<br />
<br />
"There were so many elderly, teenagers, youth, women," recalled Peiris, the priest, who said he was part of clashes with police.<br />
<br />
"People didn`t want to give up, didn`t want to withdraw."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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In June, a few dozen activists started meeting regularly at a seaside tented camp in Colombo for hours-long sessions to think up ways to revive Sri Lanka`s flagging protest movement.

In June, a few dozen activists started meeting regularly at a seaside tented camp in Colombo for hours-long sessions to think up ways to revive Sri Lanka`s flagging protest movement. The group, which included a Catholic priest, a digital strategist and a popular playwright, succeeded beyond their wildest hopes. Within weeks, hundreds of thousands of people descended on Colombo. After initially clashing with police, protesters occupied key government buildings and residences, forcing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his prime minister to promise to step down. "I`m still trying to process it," said Chameera Dedduwage, a digital strategist at a major advertising firm who became part of the team that helped organise the uprising. "It was 50 percent premeditation and coordination, another 30 percent willingness of the people and 20 percent luck." In interviews, veterans of those small meetings described how they agreed on a multi-pronged campaign to inject new life into the movement widely known as "Aragalaya", or "struggle" in Sinhala. The movement had begun in March, when thousands took to the streets to vent their anger at lengthy power cuts and spiralling prices, and to call for the Rajapaksa family that had dominated the country`s politics for much of the last 20 years to leave power. On May 9, Rajapaksa`s elder brother Mahinda - president from 2005-2015 and at that time serving as prime minister - had stepped down. On June 9, younger brother Basil had quit as a lawmaker. So, the Aragalaya activists targeted July 9 as the day they hoped to unseat the president himself. A plan emerged to combine online agitation, meetings with political parties, labour unions and student groups and door-to-door campaigning to get enough people back on the streets for a final push, according to the three attendees. Public frustration at ongoing shortages, which has brought the economy to a standstill, and the president`s stubborn refusal to step aside, had been simmering for weeks. Riding on trains, buses, lorries and bicycles, or simply walking, huge crowds converged on Colombo on Saturday, outnumbering security forces deployed to protect government buildings and upending Sri Lankan politics. "Gota Go Home!" the crowds chanted in Colombo`s Fort area, seething over the country`s worst economic crisis since independence. They quickly broke into the president`s colonial-era house, before storming a portion of the presidential office and entering the prime minister`s official residence 2.5 km (1.6 miles) away. Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had been moved to undisclosed safe locations, and within hours they separately announced they would resign to allow an all-party interim government to take over. If he resigns on Wednesday as promised, Rajapaksa, once a war hero who was both revered and feared, will become the first sitting Sri Lankan president to quit. "I think it is the most unprecedented gathering in this country. Full stop," Ruwanthie de Chickera, a playwright who is part of the core group of Aragalaya activists, told Reuters. Representatives of the president and prime minister did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the protests and why they stepped aside. Their whereabouts have not been made public. 'EVERYONE ON BOARD' Sri Lanka has around 5 million households and 8 million active Facebook accounts, making online outreach an extremely effective way to reach demonstrators, said Dedduwage, the digital strategist. "Which means basically through Facebook, we can practically reach every corner of the country at no cost," Dedduwage told Reuters, sitting at a tent at "Gota Go Village", the main Colombo protest site that mockingly refers to the president. In early July, one of those who received the group`s social media messages was Sathya Charith Amaratunge, a marketing professional living in Moratuwa, some 20 km from Colombo, who had taken part in earlier anti-government protests. The 35-year-old took a poster he received via WhatsApp on July 2 that read "The Country to Colombo, July 9" in Sinhala, and uploaded it on his personal Facebook page. That night he began preparing a campaign that would eventually see tens of thousands of people join him on a march to Colombo. Other Aragalaya members reached out directly to opposition political parties, trade unions and student unions, including the influential Inter University Students` Federation (IUSF), in order to bolster support, according to Dedduwage. One of Sri Lanka`s largest student groups, the IUSF has a reputation for its political agitation and clashed with security forces during recent protests, dismantling police barricades amid teargas and water cannon. The Aragalaya group also asked volunteers to visit thousands of homes across parts of Colombo, including middle-class government housing estates, some within walking distance of the main protest site. To bring people in from outside the city, activists appealed to more than 30 "Gota Go Village" sites that had sprung up in towns and cities across the country. Late on July 8, police declared a curfew in several districts around Colombo, which activists said was aimed at stalling the planned protest. Police said the move was to maintain public order. Some core group members swiftly moved to safe houses, fearing arrest. Jeevanth Peiris, a Catholic priest who is part of the activist group, worried that only a few thousand people would turn up the next day because of the restrictions. Fuel shortages had curtailed transport options for weeks. "We honestly expected only 10,000 with all these restrictions, all this intimidation," he told Reuters, dressed in a white cassock. "We thought 5,000 to 10,000." 'PEOPLE DIDN`T WANT TO GIVE UP' Early on July 9, marketing professional Amaratunge said he started off on foot from Moratuwa with around 2,000 fellow protesters, about the size of group he had expected after a week of sharing posts on Facebook and WhatsApp. It was only when he left his hometown that Amaratunge said he realised how many people wanted to go to Colombo. Many had been angered by the curfew, which the police withdrew early on Saturday. In multiple Facebook livestreams posted by Amaratunge on Saturday, several hundred people can be seen strolling down the main road to Colombo, some holding the national flag. By Amaratunge`s estimate, tens of thousands eventually joined the march he was on, and reached Colombo`s fort area. According to a police official who spoke on condition of anonymity, the crowd there swelled to at least 200,000 people. Members of the Aragalaya core group said several times that number took part, as wave upon wave of people arrived in Colombo and marched towards the main protest site. Organisers had roughly calculated that it would take around 10,000 people to overpower personnel guarding each of the four entry points to the president`s house, Dedduwage said. In the early afternoon, after dismantling police barricades and commandeering water cannon, protesters took apart the tall gates guarding the president`s house and overwhelmed a large deployment of security forces. By night, Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe`s official residences were occupied by protesters, who uprooted fences outside the presidential secretariat and took over a part of it. Wickremesinghe`s personal residence was attacked and a section of it set alight. Within hours, the leaders were ready to go. "There were so many elderly, teenagers, youth, women," recalled Peiris, the priest, who said he was part of clashes with police. "People didn`t want to give up, didn`t want to withdraw." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How a band of activists helped bring down Sri Lanka's government

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">Sajith Premadasa, Sri Lankan opposition leader, said he plans to run for president after Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands down. This comes after his Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party undertook consultations with its allies to secure support for this action. During an interview with the BBC, Premadasa stated that his party and allies concurred that he should "submit my nomination for the position of the leadership." The speaker of parliament declared that legislators would elect the country’s new leader in place of Rajapaksa on July 20, BBC reported.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">Premadasa lost the 2019 presidential race and would require the backing of MPs to win. Earlier, the leader of SJB was offered the position of prime minister in April, but he declined, drawing criticism. Ranil Wickremesinghe, his rival, was appointed but said he will also step down to create room for a unity administration.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/long-queues-in-sri-lanka-as-fuel-supplies-resume-after-weekend-of-tumultuous-anti-government-protests-496577">Long queues in Sri Lanka, as fuel supplies resume after weekend of tumultuous anti-government protests</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">The SJB leader described the current situation&nbsp;in Sri Lanka as "confused, uncertainty and total anarchy", saying it needs "consensus, consultation, compromise, and coming togetherness."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka economic crunch: Citizens try to flee country amid crisis</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-economic-crunch-citizens-try-to-flee-country-amid-crisis-496584/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">Premadasa acknowledged the situation, saying there are no easy solutions to this. He added that his party has an economic strategy to get the nation out of this situation and that it would take four to five years to get the economy back on track like in 2019.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-a-band-of-activists-helped-bring-down-sri-lankas-government-496522">How a band of activists helped bring down Sri Lanka's government</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Premadasa said, "We are not going to hoodwink the people. We are going, to be frank and present a plan to get rid of Sri Lanka's economic ills."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">However, the protesters in Colombo’s Galle Face claim that all the 255 members of the parliament are equally responsible for the current state of the country and demand a new beginning with young and dynamic politicians taking over.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Sajith Premadasa, Sri Lankan opposition leader, said he plans to run for president after Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands down. This comes after his Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party undertook consultations with its allies to secure support for this action.

Sajith Premadasa, Sri Lankan opposition leader, said he plans to run for president after Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands down. This comes after his Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party undertook consultations with its allies to secure support for this action. During an interview with the BBC, Premadasa stated that his party and allies concurred that he should "submit my nomination for the position of the leadership." The speaker of parliament declared that legislators would elect the country’s new leader in place of Rajapaksa on July 20, BBC reported. Premadasa lost the 2019 presidential race and would require the backing of MPs to win. Earlier, the leader of SJB was offered the position of prime minister in April, but he declined, drawing criticism. Ranil Wickremesinghe, his rival, was appointed but said he will also step down to create room for a unity administration. Also read | Long queues in Sri Lanka, as fuel supplies resume after weekend of tumultuous anti-government protests The SJB leader described the current situation in Sri Lanka as "confused, uncertainty and total anarchy", saying it needs "consensus, consultation, compromise, and coming togetherness." Watch | Sri Lanka economic crunch: Citizens try to flee country amid crisis Premadasa acknowledged the situation, saying there are no easy solutions to this. He added that his party has an economic strategy to get the nation out of this situation and that it would take four to five years to get the economy back on track like in 2019. Also read | How a band of activists helped bring down Sri Lanka's government Premadasa said, "We are not going to hoodwink the people. We are going, to be frank and present a plan to get rid of Sri Lanka's economic ills." However, the protesters in Colombo’s Galle Face claim that all the 255 members of the parliament are equally responsible for the current state of the country and demand a new beginning with young and dynamic politicians taking over. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka in crisis: Sajith Premadasa ready to run for president when Rajapaksa steps down

<p>Australia batter David Warner shared a heartfelt note for Sri Lankan fans on social media post their conclusion of Aussie's tour of the country on Monday (July 11). Australia's tour of Sri Lanka came to an end with the hosts defeating Pat Cummins &amp; Co. by an innings and 39 runs in the 2nd and final Test to draw the two-match series 1-1. It was a tour to remember for Australia considering the circumstances they were playing in in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Australia's tour of Sri Lanka kick-started with the visitors clinching the T20I series 2-1 before the hosts bounced back to win the five-match ODI series 3-2. There was quality cricket on display throughout the white-ball leg before the two teams gave their all in the two-match Test series which ended in a 1-1 draw.</p>

<p>While there was intense action on the field during the tour, Australian players found themselves in unforeseen circumstances towards the end of it with anti-government protests happening across Sri Lanka. Amid the Sri Lankans dealing with the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history, cricket provided some respite.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-eating-on-alternate-days-to-feed-their-kids-pat-cummins-on-massive-protests-in-sri-lanka-496594">People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka</a></p>

<p>Sri Lanka is dealing with an acute shortage of essential supplies, power cuts and soaring inflation amid political unrest and the economic crisis in the country. However, fans turned up in huge numbers at the&nbsp;stadiums to watch the matches between Sri Lanka and Australia. There was immense passion on display at the stands during the matches with fans celebrating the game wholeheartedly.</p>

<p>Australian batter Warner took to social media to share a heartfelt post for Sri Lanka and the cricket fans in the country thanking them for their amazing reception despite the difficult circumstances. Warner haled the fans for smiling through the adversities and said he would never forget this trip.</p>

<p>“Thank you Sri Lanka for hosting us here during what is an extremely difficult time. We are so grateful to be able to come here and play the game we love and know you all love supporting. You have opened your arms up to us and we will never forget this trip," Warner wrote in his Instagram post.</p>

<p>"What I love about your amazing country is no matter the circumstances you always have a smile on your face and are always so welcoming. Thank you and I can’t wait to one day visit for a holiday with my family," he added.</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-rest-in-ipl-but-want-to-rest-when-you-play-for-india-sunil-gavaskar-slams-team-india-stars-496556">You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars</a></p>

<p>During the second Test between Sri Lanka and Australia, protestors had gathered around the Galle Fort near the Galle Stadium which was hosting the match. Some protests enjoyed the cricketing action from far as the hosts managed to get the better of Australia in the final encounter to draw the series.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Australia batter David Warner shared a heartfelt note for Sri Lankan fans on social media post their conclusion of Aussie's tour of the country on Monday (July 11).

Australia batter David Warner shared a heartfelt note for Sri Lankan fans on social media post their conclusion of Aussie's tour of the country on Monday (July 11). Australia's tour of Sri Lanka came to an end with the hosts defeating Pat Cummins & Co. by an innings and 39 runs in the 2nd and final Test to draw the two-match series 1-1. It was a tour to remember for Australia considering the circumstances they were playing in in Sri Lanka. Australia's tour of Sri Lanka kick-started with the visitors clinching the T20I series 2-1 before the hosts bounced back to win the five-match ODI series 3-2. There was quality cricket on display throughout the white-ball leg before the two teams gave their all in the two-match Test series which ended in a 1-1 draw. While there was intense action on the field during the tour, Australian players found themselves in unforeseen circumstances towards the end of it with anti-government protests happening across Sri Lanka. Amid the Sri Lankans dealing with the worst-ever economic crisis in the country's history, cricket provided some respite. Also Read: People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is dealing with an acute shortage of essential supplies, power cuts and soaring inflation amid political unrest and the economic crisis in the country. However, fans turned up in huge numbers at the stadiums to watch the matches between Sri Lanka and Australia. There was immense passion on display at the stands during the matches with fans celebrating the game wholeheartedly. Australian batter Warner took to social media to share a heartfelt post for Sri Lanka and the cricket fans in the country thanking them for their amazing reception despite the difficult circumstances. Warner haled the fans for smiling through the adversities and said he would never forget this trip. “Thank you Sri Lanka for hosting us here during what is an extremely difficult time. We are so grateful to be able to come here and play the game we love and know you all love supporting. You have opened your arms up to us and we will never forget this trip," Warner wrote in his Instagram post. "What I love about your amazing country is no matter the circumstances you always have a smile on your face and are always so welcoming. Thank you and I can’t wait to one day visit for a holiday with my family," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) × Also Read: You can't rest in IPL but want to rest when you play for India: Sunil Gavaskar slams Team India stars During the second Test between Sri Lanka and Australia, protestors had gathered around the Galle Fort near the Galle Stadium which was hosting the match. Some protests enjoyed the cricketing action from far as the hosts managed to get the better of Australia in the final encounter to draw the series.

'Will never forget this trip': David Warner shares heartfelt post for Sri Lanka amid economic crisis, protests

<p>The embattled president of Sri Lanka was reportedly stranded in his own nation on Tuesday in a humiliating standoff with airport immigration officials who were preventing his escape to safety overseas. Following widespread protests against him over the nation's unparalleled economic crisis, Gotabaya Rajapaksa has pledged to step down on Wednesday and pave the way for a "peaceful transition of power."</p>

<p>The 73-year-old leader wanted to travel to Dubai and left his official mansion in Colombo shortly before tens of thousands of demonstrators occupied it on Saturday, according to officials.</p>

<p>Rajapaksa is said to want to leave the country before resigning in order to avoid the risk of being arrested because he is immune from arrest in his capacity as president. However, immigration officials were refusing to stamp his passport in the VIP suite while he said he would not use the public restrooms out of fear of retaliation from other airport travellers.</p>

<p>After missing four planes that could have brought them to the United Arab Emirates, the president and his wife spent the night at a military base close to the main international airport.</p>

<p>The youngest brother of Rajapaksa and the former finance minister, missed his own early-morning Tuesday Emirates flight to Dubai due to a similar altercation with airport personnel.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Sri Lanka's economic and political crisis: No consensus over next President's name</strong></p>

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<p>When Basil attempted to employ the paid business traveller concierge service, airport and immigration staff informed him that they were discontinuing the fast track service with immediate effect.</p>

<p>An airport representative told AFP that "several other passengers objected to Basil boarding their flight." "He hastily departed the airport because it was a difficult scene."</p>

<p>A diplomatic source said that Basil, a US dual citizen, had to obtain a new passport after leaving his behind at the presidential palace when the Rajapaksas beat a hasty retreat to avoid mobs on Saturday, a diplomatic source said.</p>

<p>According to official reports, Rs 17.85 million&nbsp;in cash and a suitcase packed with documents were also left behind at the regal home. These items are currently in the possession of a Colombo court.</p>

<p>He was still the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and had access to military resources, but the president's administration had not made any official announcement concerning his whereabouts.</p>

<p>According to a defence source, he may still use a navy ship to travel to India or the Maldives.</p>

<p>If Rajapaksa fulfils his vow to resign, Ranil Wickremesinghe, the prime minister, will automatically take over as president until the parliament chooses a member of parliament to complete Rajapaksa's term, which expires in November 2024.</p>

<p>Rajapaksa is charged with mismanaging the economy to the extent that the nation lacks foreign currency to pay for even the most basic imports, causing extreme misery for the 22 million people living there.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka is in discussions with the IMF for a potential rescue after defaulting on its $51 billion in foreign debt in April.</p>

<p>The island's already limited gasoline supplies are almost gone. To cut down on commuting and save gasoline, the government has mandated the shutdown of non-essential offices and schools.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The embattled president of Sri Lanka was reportedly stranded in his own nation on Tuesday in a humiliating standoff with airport immigration officials who were preventing his escape to safety overseas.

The embattled president of Sri Lanka was reportedly stranded in his own nation on Tuesday in a humiliating standoff with airport immigration officials who were preventing his escape to safety overseas. Following widespread protests against him over the nation's unparalleled economic crisis, Gotabaya Rajapaksa has pledged to step down on Wednesday and pave the way for a "peaceful transition of power." The 73-year-old leader wanted to travel to Dubai and left his official mansion in Colombo shortly before tens of thousands of demonstrators occupied it on Saturday, according to officials. Rajapaksa is said to want to leave the country before resigning in order to avoid the risk of being arrested because he is immune from arrest in his capacity as president. However, immigration officials were refusing to stamp his passport in the VIP suite while he said he would not use the public restrooms out of fear of retaliation from other airport travellers. After missing four planes that could have brought them to the United Arab Emirates, the president and his wife spent the night at a military base close to the main international airport. The youngest brother of Rajapaksa and the former finance minister, missed his own early-morning Tuesday Emirates flight to Dubai due to a similar altercation with airport personnel. Watch: Sri Lanka's economic and political crisis: No consensus over next President's name When Basil attempted to employ the paid business traveller concierge service, airport and immigration staff informed him that they were discontinuing the fast track service with immediate effect. An airport representative told AFP that "several other passengers objected to Basil boarding their flight." "He hastily departed the airport because it was a difficult scene." A diplomatic source said that Basil, a US dual citizen, had to obtain a new passport after leaving his behind at the presidential palace when the Rajapaksas beat a hasty retreat to avoid mobs on Saturday, a diplomatic source said. According to official reports, Rs 17.85 million in cash and a suitcase packed with documents were also left behind at the regal home. These items are currently in the possession of a Colombo court. He was still the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and had access to military resources, but the president's administration had not made any official announcement concerning his whereabouts. According to a defence source, he may still use a navy ship to travel to India or the Maldives. If Rajapaksa fulfils his vow to resign, Ranil Wickremesinghe, the prime minister, will automatically take over as president until the parliament chooses a member of parliament to complete Rajapaksa's term, which expires in November 2024. Rajapaksa is charged with mismanaging the economy to the extent that the nation lacks foreign currency to pay for even the most basic imports, causing extreme misery for the 22 million people living there. Sri Lanka is in discussions with the IMF for a potential rescue after defaulting on its $51 billion in foreign debt in April. The island's already limited gasoline supplies are almost gone. To cut down on commuting and save gasoline, the government has mandated the shutdown of non-essential offices and schools. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lankan President stopped from fleeing the crisis-hit nation by airport staff

<p>Sri Lankans found some joy amid agony as the Dimuth Karunaratne-led team defeated Australia in the 2nd Test in Galle on Monday to draw the two-match Test series 1-1. Amid massive anti-government protests in the country and an acute shortage of resources due to the economic crisis, the Sri Lankan cricket team produced an excellent performance with the bat and ball to beat Australia by an innings and 39 runs in the second Test.</p>

<p>Despite the brilliant performance from the hosts, the second Test was overshadowed by protests across the nation. Protestors had flooded Sri Lankan president&nbsp;Gotabaya Rajapaksa's residence in Colombo as he was spotted feeling the country. The anti-government protests were staged amidst Sri Lanka dealing with one of its worst-ever economic crises.</p>

<p>Following the conclusion of the second Test in Galle, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins spoke about the protests in Sri Lanka and sympathised with the people of the country, who are facing a tough time. Cummins revealed he and some other players spoke to some of the staff at their hotel and drivers who told them how they have been surviving by eating on alternate days to ensure they can feed their kids.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-looks-like-a-million-dollars-waqar-younis-on-pakistan-skippers-comparisons-with-other-greats-496580">'Babar looks like a million dollars': Waqar Younis on Pakistan skipper's comparisons with other greats</a></p>

<p>“The protest yesterday, you couldn’t escape it. We’ve got list of messages from back home saying, ‘how is it? Hope you’re okay.’ We’ve felt totally fine,” Cummins said in a video posted by Cricket Australia.</p>

<p>“You could just hear kind of when it changed from a protest to a party. And chatting to some of the staff around the hotel and a couple of drivers. They are doing it really tough. They are having one day eating, one day off eating to try and feed their kids. It’s really tough,” he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pat Cummins speaks about the mass protest that swarmed the Galle ground during the second Test and how the impact of the tour has not been lost on the touring side <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/M6BrlCdpwr">pic.twitter.com/M6BrlCdpwr</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1546697102893322240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Talking about the second Test, Australia looked well in control after the visitors rode on centuries from Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith to post 364 runs on the board in their first innings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-sri-lanka-level-series-with-australia-496460">&nbsp;Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Sri Lanka level series with Australia</a></p>

<p>However, Sri Lankan batters were up for the challenge as Dinesh Chandimal struck an unbeaten double hundred while the likes of Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis and Angelo Mathews struck half-centuries apiece to take the hosts to a staggering total of 554 runs in their first innings.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka then bundled out the Aussies for a paltry 151 runs in their second innings to register a dominant win by an innings and 39 runs. Left-arm spinner&nbsp;Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Aussie batting line-up picking up six wickets in their second innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sri Lankans found some joy amid agony as the Dimuth Karunaratne-led team defeated Australia in the 2nd Test in Galle on Monday to draw the two-match Test series 1-1.

Sri Lankans found some joy amid agony as the Dimuth Karunaratne-led team defeated Australia in the 2nd Test in Galle on Monday to draw the two-match Test series 1-1. Amid massive anti-government protests in the country and an acute shortage of resources due to the economic crisis, the Sri Lankan cricket team produced an excellent performance with the bat and ball to beat Australia by an innings and 39 runs in the second Test. Despite the brilliant performance from the hosts, the second Test was overshadowed by protests across the nation. Protestors had flooded Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa's residence in Colombo as he was spotted feeling the country. The anti-government protests were staged amidst Sri Lanka dealing with one of its worst-ever economic crises. Following the conclusion of the second Test in Galle, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins spoke about the protests in Sri Lanka and sympathised with the people of the country, who are facing a tough time. Cummins revealed he and some other players spoke to some of the staff at their hotel and drivers who told them how they have been surviving by eating on alternate days to ensure they can feed their kids. Also Read: 'Babar looks like a million dollars': Waqar Younis on Pakistan skipper's comparisons with other greats “The protest yesterday, you couldn’t escape it. We’ve got list of messages from back home saying, ‘how is it? Hope you’re okay.’ We’ve felt totally fine,” Cummins said in a video posted by Cricket Australia. “You could just hear kind of when it changed from a protest to a party. And chatting to some of the staff around the hotel and a couple of drivers. They are doing it really tough. They are having one day eating, one day off eating to try and feed their kids. It’s really tough,” he added. Pat Cummins speaks about the mass protest that swarmed the Galle ground during the second Test and how the impact of the tour has not been lost on the touring side #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/M6BrlCdpwr — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) July 12, 2022 × Talking about the second Test, Australia looked well in control after the visitors rode on centuries from Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith to post 364 runs on the board in their first innings. Also Read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Sri Lanka level series with Australia However, Sri Lankan batters were up for the challenge as Dinesh Chandimal struck an unbeaten double hundred while the likes of Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis and Angelo Mathews struck half-centuries apiece to take the hosts to a staggering total of 554 runs in their first innings. Sri Lanka then bundled out the Aussies for a paltry 151 runs in their second innings to register a dominant win by an innings and 39 runs. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya ran through the Aussie batting line-up picking up six wickets in their second innings.

People are eating on alternate days to feed their kids: Pat Cummins on massive protests in Sri Lanka

The Sri Lanka turmoil is getting more chaotic by the minute. After months of protests, rallies and demonstrations, Protestors have now taken over President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's mansion. Social media images and videos show a disorderly yet happy scene inside the overrun official Presidential palace.

Sri Lanka turmoil gets chaotic. Protestors play carrom, and lounge on Gotabaya Rajapaksa's bed

From unrest in Sri Lanka to raging wildfires in Portugal, here are some impactful images from around the world.

World in Pictures: Unrest in Sri Lanka; raging wildfires in Portugal

<p>Sri Lanka has been in turmoil. The Island nation, as per many experts, are going through the worst economic crisis in seven decades. Thus, the essential supply such as food, fuel, and electricity have been in limited numbers.</p>

<p>Amid all this, the Sri Lanka cricketers are doing their bit to help the country in such tumultous times. In this regard, Sri Lanka and Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) spinner Maheesh Theekshana won hearts by with a noble gesture for his homeland. With the help of the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army, the 21-year-old wily spinner&nbsp;donated essential medical supplies to a Colombo hospital.</p>

<p>"I am blessed and humbled to contribute towards this desperate hour of their need," Theekshana told News9 while dwelling about his heartfelt gesture.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Maheesh Theekshana has donated Tissue vault, cell and freezing bags to Human heart value and tissue bank at Lady Ridgeway hospital for children today. Glad you have decided to allocate part of your IPL earnings to this. It's a generous gesture indeed 🙏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/children?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#children</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/maheesht61?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@maheesht61</a> 💙 <a href="https://t.co/GOGQLam2vG">pic.twitter.com/GOGQLam2vG</a></p>
— Amila Kalugalage (@akalugalage) <a href="https://twitter.com/akalugalage/status/1541385386928140294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-sl-w-chamari-athapaththus-80-guides-sl-to-consolation-win-prevents-india-from-series-whitewash-492323">Ind-W vs SL-W: Chamari Athapaththu's 80 guides SL to consolation win, prevents India from series whitewash</a></strong></p>

<p>For the unversed, Theekshana&nbsp;contributed by donating tissue vault, cell, and freezing bags to the Human Heart Valve and Tissue Bank at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children in Colombo. As per a report by News18, he donated a part of his IPL 2022 earnings to help his crisis-hit Island nation.</p>

<p>Theekshana was signed by the four-time champions CSK for INR 70 lakhs (i.e. INR 7 million) ahead of IPL 15. He ended up with a fruitful debut season with the popular franchise, churning out 12 scalps in nine games. CSK, however, ended the IPL 2022 edition by finishing at the ninth spot and failed to win their fifth title. Theekshana was also part of Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka's recent 3-2 ODI series win over Australia in their own backyard, where he impressed one and all.</p>


Sri Lanka has been in turmoil. The Island nation, as per many experts, are going through the worst economic crisis in seven decades. Thus, the essential supply such as food, fuel, and electricity have been in limited numbers.

Sri Lanka has been in turmoil. The Island nation, as per many experts, are going through the worst economic crisis in seven decades. Thus, the essential supply such as food, fuel, and electricity have been in limited numbers. Amid all this, the Sri Lanka cricketers are doing their bit to help the country in such tumultous times. In this regard, Sri Lanka and Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) spinner Maheesh Theekshana won hearts by with a noble gesture for his homeland. With the help of the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army, the 21-year-old wily spinner donated essential medical supplies to a Colombo hospital. "I am blessed and humbled to contribute towards this desperate hour of their need," Theekshana told News9 while dwelling about his heartfelt gesture. Maheesh Theekshana has donated Tissue vault, cell and freezing bags to Human heart value and tissue bank at Lady Ridgeway hospital for children today. Glad you have decided to allocate part of your IPL earnings to this. It's a generous gesture indeed 🙏 #children @maheesht61 💙 pic.twitter.com/GOGQLam2vG — Amila Kalugalage (@akalugalage) June 27, 2022 × ALSO READ | Ind-W vs SL-W: Chamari Athapaththu's 80 guides SL to consolation win, prevents India from series whitewash For the unversed, Theekshana contributed by donating tissue vault, cell, and freezing bags to the Human Heart Valve and Tissue Bank at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children in Colombo. As per a report by News18, he donated a part of his IPL 2022 earnings to help his crisis-hit Island nation. Theekshana was signed by the four-time champions CSK for INR 70 lakhs (i.e. INR 7 million) ahead of IPL 15. He ended up with a fruitful debut season with the popular franchise, churning out 12 scalps in nine games. CSK, however, ended the IPL 2022 edition by finishing at the ninth spot and failed to win their fifth title. Theekshana was also part of Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka's recent 3-2 ODI series win over Australia in their own backyard, where he impressed one and all.

Maheesh Theekshana, MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings help crisis-hit Sri Lanka, donate medical supplies

<p>Sri Lanka has been going through the worst economic crisis in its history since gaining independence in 1948 and there has been a massive uproar among the public regarding the entire situation. The situation got worse on Saturday as the military opened fire on civilians in order to stop them from rioting at a fuel station as fuel prices continue to rise. According to Sri Lanka government officials, the incident took place in Visuvamadu, 365km (228 miles) north of Colombo as the crowd pelted stones at the guards who were present at the station. &nbsp;“A group of 20 to 30 people pelted stones and damaged an army truck,” army spokesperson Nilantha Premaratne said according to Reuters.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-south-wales-premier-announces-installation-of-third-flagpole-on-sydney-harbour-bridge-for-aboriginal-flag-489690">Aboriginal flag set to fly permanently on Sydney Harbour Bridge</a></p>

<p>The police said that four civilians and three soldiers were injured in the conflict. The problem started when the fuel station ran out of petrol and the people present started to protest.</p>

<p>This was not an isolated incident as the troops were deployed near the fuel stations.</p>

<p>There were reports of a number of similar incidents all around Sri Lanka and at least six constables and seven motorists were injured as clashes took place in three different locations.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-the-scandal-engulfing-south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa-489616" hreflang="en">What is the scandal engulfing South African President Cyril Ramaphosa?</a></p>

<p>Along with the fuel crisis, the country is also going through a massive food shortage and according to the United Nations, the situation can get worse with millions needing aid in the coming years.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Sri Lanka government announced a shut-down on public sector offices and asked government schoolteachers to conduct online lessons due to the ongoing crisis in the country.</p>

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Sri Lanka has been going through the worst economic crisis in its history since gaining independence in 1948 and there has been a massive uproar among the public regarding the entire situation.

Sri Lanka has been going through the worst economic crisis in its history since gaining independence in 1948 and there has been a massive uproar among the public regarding the entire situation. The situation got worse on Saturday as the military opened fire on civilians in order to stop them from rioting at a fuel station as fuel prices continue to rise. According to Sri Lanka government officials, the incident took place in Visuvamadu, 365km (228 miles) north of Colombo as the crowd pelted stones at the guards who were present at the station. “A group of 20 to 30 people pelted stones and damaged an army truck,” army spokesperson Nilantha Premaratne said according to Reuters. Also read | Aboriginal flag set to fly permanently on Sydney Harbour Bridge The police said that four civilians and three soldiers were injured in the conflict. The problem started when the fuel station ran out of petrol and the people present started to protest. This was not an isolated incident as the troops were deployed near the fuel stations. There were reports of a number of similar incidents all around Sri Lanka and at least six constables and seven motorists were injured as clashes took place in three different locations. Also read | What is the scandal engulfing South African President Cyril Ramaphosa? Along with the fuel crisis, the country is also going through a massive food shortage and according to the United Nations, the situation can get worse with millions needing aid in the coming years. Earlier, the Sri Lanka government announced a shut-down on public sector offices and asked government schoolteachers to conduct online lessons due to the ongoing crisis in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lankan military open fire to contain unrest over fuel crisis

<p>On Friday, the Sri Lankan authorities declared a shutdown of government offices and schools for two weeks, given the public transport ground that is almost completely halted due to a lack of dollars to make payments and import fuel, reported AFP.</p>

<p>As a result of the acute shortage of petrol and diesel in the country, the Public Administration Ministry of Sri Lanka has instructed all departments, public institutions, and local councils to maintain the bare minimum services starting Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/seven-sri-lankan-tamils-flee-home-country-to-arrive-on-indian-shores-exodus-grows-to-90-489201">Seven Sri Lankan Tamils flee home country to arrive on Indian shores; exodus grows to 90</a></strong></p>

<p>"Due to scarce public transport as well as the inability to arrange private vehicles, it is decided to drastically curtail the number of employees reporting to work," AFP reported quoting the ministry order.</p>

<p>The education ministry in Sri Lanka has also asked schools to remain closed from Monday for two weeks and continue with online classes if students and teachers have access to electricity.</p>

<p>The authorities also declared Friday a holiday in order to conserve fuel.</p>

<p>Even with several such measures, the country is still witnessing long queues at the gas stations, with people claiming to have waited for several days to fill their tanks.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lankan govt issues new circular: Govt to close offices, schools for two weeks amid economic crisis</strong></p>

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<p>Since its Independence in 1948, Sri Lanka has been going through one of the worst economic crises with no capacity to finance the import of basic necessities like food, medicines, and fuel from the end of last year. The country has already defaulted on its 51 billion dollars foreign debt and is presently in talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) requesting a bailout.</p>

<p>The country also suffers from a record high inflation along with continuous and prolonged power blackouts. These factors have contributed to the months of protests and violence calling for President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shutdown came one day after United Nations launched an emergency response to the country's economic crisis by providing food to thousands of pregnant women suffering from food shortages.</p>

<p>The UN said that four out of five people in Sri Lanka are skipping meals as they cannot afford to eat, which they referred to as a "dire humanitarian crisis" with millions of people in need of aid.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-cabinet-approves-several-measures-to-facilitate-economic-recovery-488156">Sri Lankan cabinet approves several measures to facilitate economic recovery</a></strong></p>

<p>The World Food Programme told AFP on Thursday that it had started distributing food vouchers to nearly 2,000 pregnant women in Colombo's "underserved" areas as part of their "life-saving assistance."</p>

<p>The WFP is also currently trying to raise about 60 million dollars for a food relief effort from June to December.</p>

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On Friday, the Sri Lankan authorities declared a shutdown of government offices and schools for two weeks, given the public transport ground that is almost completely halted due to a lack of dollars to make payments and import fuel, reported AFP.

On Friday, the Sri Lankan authorities declared a shutdown of government offices and schools for two weeks, given the public transport ground that is almost completely halted due to a lack of dollars to make payments and import fuel, reported AFP. As a result of the acute shortage of petrol and diesel in the country, the Public Administration Ministry of Sri Lanka has instructed all departments, public institutions, and local councils to maintain the bare minimum services starting Monday. Also read | Seven Sri Lankan Tamils flee home country to arrive on Indian shores; exodus grows to 90 "Due to scarce public transport as well as the inability to arrange private vehicles, it is decided to drastically curtail the number of employees reporting to work," AFP reported quoting the ministry order. The education ministry in Sri Lanka has also asked schools to remain closed from Monday for two weeks and continue with online classes if students and teachers have access to electricity. The authorities also declared Friday a holiday in order to conserve fuel. Even with several such measures, the country is still witnessing long queues at the gas stations, with people claiming to have waited for several days to fill their tanks. Watch | Sri Lankan govt issues new circular: Govt to close offices, schools for two weeks amid economic crisis Since its Independence in 1948, Sri Lanka has been going through one of the worst economic crises with no capacity to finance the import of basic necessities like food, medicines, and fuel from the end of last year. The country has already defaulted on its 51 billion dollars foreign debt and is presently in talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) requesting a bailout. The country also suffers from a record high inflation along with continuous and prolonged power blackouts. These factors have contributed to the months of protests and violence calling for President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down. The shutdown came one day after United Nations launched an emergency response to the country's economic crisis by providing food to thousands of pregnant women suffering from food shortages. The UN said that four out of five people in Sri Lanka are skipping meals as they cannot afford to eat, which they referred to as a "dire humanitarian crisis" with millions of people in need of aid. Also read | Sri Lankan cabinet approves several measures to facilitate economic recovery The World Food Programme told AFP on Thursday that it had started distributing food vouchers to nearly 2,000 pregnant women in Colombo's "underserved" areas as part of their "life-saving assistance." The WFP is also currently trying to raise about 60 million dollars for a food relief effort from June to December. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka schools, govt offices to shut as transport grinds to halt

Sri Lankans have been queuing up, for food, fuel, and more recently passports. Sri Lankans have been applying for new passports in a bid to leave the country amid the economic crisis.

Queues in Sri Lanka – for fuel, food & now passports

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">Sri Lanka is now encouraging civic officials to take an extra day off each week to grow crops in their backyards to avoid a future food shortage. The cabinet on Tuesday said in a statement, "It seems appropriate to grant government officials leave for one working day of the week and provide them with the necessary facilities to engage in agricultural activities in their backyards.&nbsp;"The statement mentioned the extra day off as a solution to the impending food shortage and also stated that reducing civil servants’ trips would help with the fuel shortage. Public servants will have every Friday off for the next three months without losing pay. However, this agreement doesn’t apply to essential civic employees, as reported by AFP.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">Last week, the United Nations warned the south Asian country with 22 million people facing a ‘dire humanitarian crisis,’ with four out of five people forced to skip meals.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nearly-10-per-cent-of-sri-lankas-population-faced-food-shortages-before-covid-19-pandemic-report-487811">Nearly 10 per cent of Sri Lanka’s population faced food shortages before COVID-19 pandemic: Report</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">Several vital items, including petrol and medicine, are low in supply due to the island nation’s historic crisis after independence. The country has defaulted on its $51 billion international debt and is currently negotiating a bailout with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Sri Lanka fuel crisis worsens</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-sri-lanka-fuel-crisis-worsens-487895/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">According to the government, the 1.5 million members of the public sector who wish to seek work overseas will be granted up to five years of unpaid leave without compromising their pensions and seniority, with the aim of encouraging individuals to work in foreign countries and return to the island to help it recover from its severe scarcity of foreign currency to buy imports.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-risks-full-blown-humanitarian-emergency-un-agency-says-487716">Sri Lanka risks full-blown humanitarian emergency, UN agency says</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="true" data-paragraphid="6">The public has been protesting for a long time, demanding the resignation of the Sri Lankan President, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, for the mismanagement of the country and the people facing severe hardships with their necessities. The condition got worse after the covid&nbsp;epidemic because of a monetary shortage, and local tourism.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sri Lanka is now encouraging civic officials to take an extra day off each week to grow crops in their backyards to avoid a future food shortage. The cabinet on Tuesday said in a statement, "It seems appropriate to grant government officials leave for one working day of the week and provide them with the necessary facilities to engage in agricultural activities in their backyards.

Sri Lanka is now encouraging civic officials to take an extra day off each week to grow crops in their backyards to avoid a future food shortage. The cabinet on Tuesday said in a statement, "It seems appropriate to grant government officials leave for one working day of the week and provide them with the necessary facilities to engage in agricultural activities in their backyards. "The statement mentioned the extra day off as a solution to the impending food shortage and also stated that reducing civil servants’ trips would help with the fuel shortage. Public servants will have every Friday off for the next three months without losing pay. However, this agreement doesn’t apply to essential civic employees, as reported by AFP. Last week, the United Nations warned the south Asian country with 22 million people facing a ‘dire humanitarian crisis,’ with four out of five people forced to skip meals. Also read | Nearly 10 per cent of Sri Lanka’s population faced food shortages before COVID-19 pandemic: Report Several vital items, including petrol and medicine, are low in supply due to the island nation’s historic crisis after independence. The country has defaulted on its $51 billion international debt and is currently negotiating a bailout with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Watch | Gravitas: Sri Lanka fuel crisis worsens According to the government, the 1.5 million members of the public sector who wish to seek work overseas will be granted up to five years of unpaid leave without compromising their pensions and seniority, with the aim of encouraging individuals to work in foreign countries and return to the island to help it recover from its severe scarcity of foreign currency to buy imports. Also read | Sri Lanka risks full-blown humanitarian emergency, UN agency says The public has been protesting for a long time, demanding the resignation of the Sri Lankan President, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, for the mismanagement of the country and the people facing severe hardships with their necessities. The condition got worse after the covid epidemic because of a monetary shortage, and local tourism. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Take extra day off, grow crops in your backyards: Crisis-hit Sri Lanka to public servants

<p>Sri Lanka's cash-strapped government has approved several measures, including imposing a 2.5 per cent social contribution tax on companies based on their turnover and declaring Fridays as holidays for most public sector employees, to facilitate the economic recovery and mitigate energy and food crisis.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka is currently facing its worst economic crisis since independence from Britain in 1948.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nearly-10-per-cent-of-sri-lankas-population-faced-food-shortages-before-covid-19-pandemic-report-487811">Nearly 10 per cent of Sri Lanka’s population faced food shortages before COVID-19 pandemic: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The economic crisis has prompted an acute shortage of essential items like food, medicine, cooking gas and other fuel, toilet paper, and even matches, with Sri Lankans being forced to wait in lines lasting hours outside stores to buy fuel and cooking gas.</p>

<p>The Cabinet at a meeting held on Monday approved a bill to impose a 2.5 per cent tax on companies with an annual turnover of Rs&nbsp;120 million.</p>

<p>The new tax named the social contribution levy will be applicable to businesses in imports, manufacturing, service providers, wholesalers and retailers, according to an official statement.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Fuel crisis worsens in Sri Lanka as Lankan government plans fuel-rationing scheme</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fuel-crisis-worsens-in-sri-lanka-as-lankan-government-plans-fuel-rationing-scheme-487719/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In another measure aimed at mitigating the ongoing energy crisis, the Cabinet has approved to declare Fridays as holidays for the public sector employees.</p>

<p>This, however, would not be applicable to the employees in the health, power and energy, education and defence sectors.</p>

<p>The Cabinet also approved a move to grant government officials one leave per week for the next three months to engage in agriculture to mitigate the approaching food crisis.</p>

<p>Minister of Home affairs and Public Administration Dinesh Gunawardena said that fuel consumption will be reduced because of this move.</p>

<p>We have decided to make Fridays a holiday for all public servants because of the transportation issues that have popped up as a result of the fuel scarcity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-risks-full-blown-humanitarian-emergency-un-agency-says-487716">Sri Lanka risks full-blown humanitarian emergency, UN agency says</a></strong></p>

<p>"Public servants can stay at home and focus on growing food crops on Fridays",&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>Gunawardena said that Monday&nbsp;was made a holiday for all public servants so that they will not have to spend their resources and come to Colombo and go back again to their villages for the Poson Holiday on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka is experiencing long queues for refueling at pumping stations as the government finds it difficult to finance fuel imports to retain a reserve adequate for a minimum of three months.</p>

<p>A move to ration fuel is to be implemented from next month as the forex crisis gets worsened.</p>

<p>The nearly bankrupt country, with an acute foreign currency crisis that resulted in foreign debt default, announced in April that it is suspending nearly USD 7 billion foreign debt repayment due for this year out of about USD 25 billion due through 2026.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's total foreign debt stands at USD 51 billion.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sri Lanka's cash-strapped government has approved several measures, including imposing a 2.5 per cent social contribution tax on companies based on their turnover and declaring Fridays as holidays for most public sector employees, to facilitate the economic recovery and mitigate energy and food crisis.

Sri Lanka's cash-strapped government has approved several measures, including imposing a 2.5 per cent social contribution tax on companies based on their turnover and declaring Fridays as holidays for most public sector employees, to facilitate the economic recovery and mitigate energy and food crisis. Sri Lanka is currently facing its worst economic crisis since independence from Britain in 1948. Also read | Nearly 10 per cent of Sri Lanka’s population faced food shortages before COVID-19 pandemic: Report The economic crisis has prompted an acute shortage of essential items like food, medicine, cooking gas and other fuel, toilet paper, and even matches, with Sri Lankans being forced to wait in lines lasting hours outside stores to buy fuel and cooking gas. The Cabinet at a meeting held on Monday approved a bill to impose a 2.5 per cent tax on companies with an annual turnover of Rs 120 million. The new tax named the social contribution levy will be applicable to businesses in imports, manufacturing, service providers, wholesalers and retailers, according to an official statement. Watch | Fuel crisis worsens in Sri Lanka as Lankan government plans fuel-rationing scheme In another measure aimed at mitigating the ongoing energy crisis, the Cabinet has approved to declare Fridays as holidays for the public sector employees. This, however, would not be applicable to the employees in the health, power and energy, education and defence sectors. The Cabinet also approved a move to grant government officials one leave per week for the next three months to engage in agriculture to mitigate the approaching food crisis. Minister of Home affairs and Public Administration Dinesh Gunawardena said that fuel consumption will be reduced because of this move. We have decided to make Fridays a holiday for all public servants because of the transportation issues that have popped up as a result of the fuel scarcity. Also read | Sri Lanka risks full-blown humanitarian emergency, UN agency says "Public servants can stay at home and focus on growing food crops on Fridays", he said. Gunawardena said that Monday was made a holiday for all public servants so that they will not have to spend their resources and come to Colombo and go back again to their villages for the Poson Holiday on Tuesday. Sri Lanka is experiencing long queues for refueling at pumping stations as the government finds it difficult to finance fuel imports to retain a reserve adequate for a minimum of three months. A move to ration fuel is to be implemented from next month as the forex crisis gets worsened. The nearly bankrupt country, with an acute foreign currency crisis that resulted in foreign debt default, announced in April that it is suspending nearly USD 7 billion foreign debt repayment due for this year out of about USD 25 billion due through 2026. Sri Lanka's total foreign debt stands at USD 51 billion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lankan cabinet approves several measures to facilitate economic recovery

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