Public Administration Circular 09/2026 – Wednesday Holiday for Government Offices in Sri Lanka
The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government has issued Public Administration Circular 09/2026 with special instructions for government offices in view of possible fuel supply difficulties linked to the Middle East conflict situation. According to the circular, every Wednesday shall be treated as a holiday for government offices until further notice, while essential services and certain institutions are exempted.
Effective Circular
Public Administration Circular 09/2026 was issued on 17.03.2026 by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.
Main Decision
Every Wednesday shall be considered a holiday for the operations of government offices until further notice.
Reason
The circular was issued to face possible future difficulties in fuel supply due to the war situation in the Middle East region.
Work Arrangement
Duties usually performed on Wednesday should be scheduled to Tuesday of the same week wherever possible.
Remote Work Option
Where technological facilities are available, institutions may obtain services from officers without requiring their physical presence.
Weekend Duty Restriction
Officers of offices closed on Wednesday should not be called on Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays of that week for overtime, holiday pay or lieu leave.
Exception for Urgent Duty
If officers are required on weekends or public holidays due to service necessity, approval must be obtained from the relevant authority, and allowances may be granted.
Essential Services
The circular does not apply to institutions providing essential services or offices specifically directed to remain open on Wednesdays.
Schools & Education
The Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education will issue separate instructions for schools and educational institutions.
Judicial Sector
The Judicial Service Commission will provide the required instructions for institutions in the judicial sector.
Government Events
Government institutions are instructed to avoid organizing ceremonies, conferences and similar events during this period.
Circular Access
Sinhala, Tamil and English versions of the circular are available below for viewing and downloading.
📄 Sinhala Circular
රාජ්ය පරිපාලන චක්රලේඛ 09/2026
View Circular Download📄 Tamil Circular
அரசு நிà®°்வாக சுà®±்றறிக்கை 09/2026
View Circular Download
