10 Sri Lankans injured in Beirut blast so far

• The country is in a state of national mourning for three days

The number of Sri Lankans injured in the Beirut explosion has increased to 10 by Thursday noon while the total number of those injured in the country has exceeded 5,000, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said.  

The death toll has increased to 137 but information on number of missing persons is currently unavailable.   
The statement said Lebanon declared a state of national mourning for three days while the Supreme Defence Council declared Beirut a disaster city. A state of emergency has been declared for a period of two weeks from August 4, 2020. Lebanon is under a lock-down until next week.  

The damaged Chancery and residences of Embassy officials are being repaired while the Sri Lanka Embassy continues to remain open for queries and serves the public between 0800 hrs and 1600 hrs daily. Large numbers have been visiting and contacting the Embassy seeking reassurance and comfort.   

The distribution of dry rations is continuing amid a large number of people requesting for dry rations. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s message of solidarity and condolence conveyed to President Michel Aoun was delivered yesterday and was acknowledged the same day. 

• The Sri Lanka Embassy continues to remain open for queries and serves the public between 0800 hrs and 1600 hrs daily