Nationwide postal strike enters fifth day, mail services paralysed

Sri Lanka’s postal network remained severely disrupted as an indefinite strike by roughly 17,000 workers entered its fifth day. The nationwide action, excluding sub-postmasters, has halted deliveries and counter services in many areas, with union leaders pressing 19 demands covering pay, staffing, and modernisation.

Demonstrations have converged on central government offices in Colombo, with marchers calling for negotiations. Images from earlier in the week showed large contingents heading toward the Presidential Secretariat.

Authorities have urged calm while assessing contingency plans. Businesses warn of compounding delays for bills, legal notices, and small-parcel trade, as private couriers struggle to absorb volumes.

Labour analysts say the dispute highlights the challenge of reforming state entities amid fiscal constraints. Postal workers argue that technology upgrades must be paired with fair pay and clear career paths.

With no breakthrough announced by Friday, attention turns to mediation options and the strike’s knock-on effects across e-commerce and government services.