Doing our best to minimise risk of spreading COVID: Yapa with All health guidelines in place

Colombo International Book Fair (CIBF) 2020

By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe 

The Colombo International Book Fair (CIBF) 2020, has raised concerns among people after photos of a crowded BMICH with no social distancing went viral on social media.   

The temperatures are being checked at the entrance and there are sinks for visitors to wash hands

However responding to concerns, Sri Lanka Book Publishers’ Association President Vijitha Yapa said the organisers have made sure that visitors adhere to strict health guidelines and that there are special people to check if visitors are adhering to these guidelines.   

“The temperatures are being checked at the entrance and there are sinks for visitors to wash hands. It is also a must to wear masks and those who don’t have a mask can purchase one at a nominal fee of Rs. 15,” Yapa added.  He further said that Sri Lanka Red Cross conducts two disinfection rounds, one at 8.00 am and the other towards the end of the day. According to Yapa the crowd is mainly at Sirimavo Bandaranaike Hall and long queues could be seen.   

“We are trying to maintain their distance and do what we can to ensure that there is no risk of spreading COVID.”  
CIBF 2020 will be held from September 18-27 from 9.00 am -9.00 pm at BMICH.