• Postmaster General warns against sending perishable goods

International postal services from Sri Lanka have been disrupted due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, with consignments already collected now stranded amid widespread flight cancellations.

Postmaster General S.R.W.M.R.P. Sathkumara yesterday (3) confirmed that several consignments accepted on 27 February remain undelivered as a result of the ongoing crisis in the region.

Speaking to the media, he said the situation in the Middle East has led to restrictions on the dispatch of goods to certain destinations, while shipments to several countries are facing unavoidable delays and logistical obstacles.

“The large number of flight cancellations to the region has directly impacted international mail operations,” Sathkumara said, noting that air cargo capacity has been severely constrained.

He added that the Department of Posts has taken steps to inform the public about the delays and is maintaining continuous coordination with postal administrations in affected countries to manage the backlog.

Expressing hope that normal operations would resume once conditions stabilise, Sathkumara urged members of the public to exercise caution when sending items overseas during this period.

He specifically warned against dispatching perishable goods or sensitive items that could be damaged if held up for extended periods.

“These disruptions are not limited to Sri Lanka alone. Recipient countries are also experiencing operational difficulties,” he said.

The latest setback adds to the growing list of services affected locally by the instability in the Middle East, with aviation and cargo movements continuing to feel the impact of the crisis.