Sri Lanka Marks World Temperance Day; Liquor Outlets Closed as Officials Cite 22,000 Alcohol-Linked Deaths Annually

The Big Picture

Sri Lanka observed World Temperance Day on Friday with officials underscoring the public-health toll of alcohol use. In remarks reported by Xinhua, National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) Chairman Dr. Ananda Rathnayaka said about 22,000 people die annually from alcohol-related causes and estimated that 21% of Sri Lankans consume alcohol. The event was marked by countrywide programs aimed at reducing consumption and encouraging healthier choices.

What’s New

Liquor outlets across the island remained closed for the day following directives tied to the observance. Local coverage noted enforcement checks and public messaging in multiple districts, alongside education campaigns led by health authorities and civil-society groups.

What They’re Saying

Context

Public awareness drives accompanied the closures, with broadcasters and newspapers emphasizing the health and social harms of alcohol misuse. The excise curbs align with Sri Lanka’s practice of designating select “dry days” and reflect ongoing efforts to curb harmful use through education, pricing, and availability policies.

What’s Next

Health officials say outreach will continue beyond the one-day observance, with schools, workplaces, and community groups expected to host follow-up sessions on alcohol risks and prevention. Broader policy debates over regulation and enforcement are likely to remain in focus.

The Bottom Line

The observance paired a symbolic retail shutdown with public-health messaging. Authorities used the moment to highlight a persistent burden—tens of thousands of alcohol-linked deaths each year—and to push for longer-term changes in behavior and policy.

Follow Virginia Times for continuing coverage.