"Petroleum distribution has been declared an essential service from midnight," said a government statement. "Those who do not report for duty today will be considered having vacated their posts. ""The army has assisted the police in providing security to two oil distribution centres," military spokesman Roshan Seneviratne told AFP. "We also provide security to those who have reported for work to restore supplies. The deal is to be signed on Saturday.

Source: Economic Times July 26, 2017 05:37 UTC