The Government Nursing Officers’ Association says the capacity at cemeteries must be increased in line with COVID-19 mitigation efforts.
Speaking during a media briefing Chairman of the Association Saman Rathnapriya said the capacity at morgues in all main hospitals have exceeded, with nearly 100 COVID-related deaths reported daily at present.
He noted therefore existing cemeteries are insufficient to cremate remains of those who succumb to the virus.
Chairman Saman Rathnapriya said only 20 bodies can be cremated in one day at the Borella cemetery, if it operates 24 hours.
He noted however over 20 bodies are piling up in hospitals surrounding Colombo.
Rathnapriya claimed two bodies have been stored in each refrigerator at the morgue of the Colombo National Hospital.
He added bodies have also been placed on stretchers and other places.
Rathnapriya said treatment centres must be built and hospital wards must be increased, adding that the capacity of cemeteries must also be increased.
