New Zealand and the United Kingdom have revised their travel advisory level issued for Sri Lanka.
New Zealand High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Micheal Appleton said New Zealanders have been advised against non-essential travel to Sri Lanka.
This is due to the impacts of the economic crisis, including fuel shortages, and the potential for civil unrest, he said.
The Travel advisory said, there have recently been large protests, demonstrations and political rallies relating to Sri Lanka’s economic and political crisis. There is increased police and military presence in the streets, especially around queues. There has also been some violence at some queuing sites.
The New Zealand government has advised New Zealanders in Sri Lanka to avoid protests, demonstrations, rallies, large crowds, and queues. Comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews.
Full advisory: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/sri-lanka
Meanwhile, the British High Commission in Sri Lanka said the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to Sri Lanka, due to the impact of the current economic crisis.
This advice does not apply to airside transit through Sri Lanka’s international airport.
Sri Lanka is experiencing a severe economic crisis which has led to shortages of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel, and food. There is a major shortage of fuel (diesel and petrol) affecting transport, businesses, and emergency services.
The Travel advisory added that there are daily power cuts due to electricity rationing and this has led to protests and violent unrest. Further protests, demonstrations, roadblocks, and violent unrest could occur at short notice.
Full advisory: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka
(NewsWire)