Operations of the new PCR laboratory at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake was temporarily suspended earlier today, Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL).
Vice Chairman of AASL Rajiv Sooriyaarachchi said that the operations of the PCR laboratory was suspended due to a technical issue.
A number of passengers had also complained yesterday over several difficulties faced under the new system.
The lab was symbolically declared open at the BIA on 23rd September and was expected to carry out 500 PCR tests per hour and 7000 PCR tests per day for a charge of US$ 40 per traveller.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director-General of Public Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath said the new PCR laboratory at the BIA is yet to officially commence operations.
He said passengers arriving in Sri Lanka continue to undergo PCR testing under the existing system as well as the quarantine process.
Dr. Hemantha Herath said if operations are to commence at this PCR laboratory, authorities need to be satisfied with its capacity.
He added that it should also be able to operate continuously subject to several test runs. (NewsWire)