The Governor of the Northern Province, Hon. N. Vethanayahan, visited the Jaffna Teaching Hospital this morning to inspect the medicine stores that suffered extensive damage in the sudden fire that broke out during the early hours of Saturday (09 May 2026).
During the visit, the Director of Jaffna Teaching Hospital, Dr. T. Sathiyamoorthy, accompanied the Governor to the affected area and briefed him on the situation firsthand. He explained the immediate measures taken to contain the fire, the prompt relocation of medicines that were protected from the flames to suitable locations, and the alternative arrangements that had been implemented to ensure there would be no disruption to the supply of medicines for patients.
The Director further informed the Governor that the relevant officials of the Central Ministry of Health had been immediately notified regarding the incident. He also assured that all necessary arrangements had been made to continue the uninterrupted distribution of medicines through the hospital’s internal medical stores as well as the Regional Health Services Office, and therefore the public need not panic.
During the visit, the Hon. Governor personally met and expressed his special appreciation and gratitude to the Fire Brigades of the Jaffna Municipal Council, who worked with great dedication and without regard for their own safety in bringing the fire under control.
Addressing the Fire Brigades emotionally, he stated:
“Words are insufficient to thank you for this courageous effort you undertook to minimize what could have been a far greater disaster.”
The Governor also conveyed his respect and appreciation to the members of the Army, Air Force, and Police, who acted swiftly and made valuable contributions to the joint effort to contain the fire. In addition, he extended special thanks to the Hospital Director and all hospital staff members who worked together with commitment during this difficult situation.
Meanwhile, Hospital Director Dr. T. Sathiyamoorthy assured the Governor that the hospital would arrange essential medical examinations, including respiratory check-ups, for all Fire Brigades, military personnel, and staff members who were directly involved in the firefighting operation.
