The sudden closure of the state pharmacy (Rajya Osusala), operated by the State Pharmaceutical Corporation (SPC), in Minuwangoda town after nearly 40 years of service has caused great inconvenience to the public.
The pharmacy was located in the centre of Minuwangoda town, and a large number of people fulfilled their medical needs through this outlet.
Residents claim that higher officials decided to close the pharmacy, citing shortcomings in the building where it was housed and its low income. However, they have expressed dissatisfaction over the authorities’ failure to take proper steps to maintain and upgrade the premises.
They pointed out that, due to the closure, many patients who receive monthly medical treatment have lost the opportunity to purchase medicines at subsidized prices from the government pharmacy. As a result, they are now compelled to buy medicines at higher prices from private pharmacies.
People from several areas, including Minuwangoda, Ja-Ela, Katunayake, Kotugoda, Veyangoda, and Divulapitiya, had been visiting this government pharmacy to purchase medicines.
The public has therefore urged the government to restore this valuable facility in Minuwangoda town and ensure that people can once again obtain medicines at affordable prices from a government pharmacy.
