Mar 16, Colombo: Sri Lanka's Marxist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) says the government is using the opening of the new international airport in Mattala to divert attention from the real issues faced by the people like the battle for survival under current economic conditions.

JVP politburo member K.D. Lalkantha said the government was carrying out a massive campaign on the countdown to the opening of the airport.

However, he noted that the problems faced by the people would remain unresolved once the countdown ends.

"What the government is not saying is the countdown to the opening of the airport is simultaneous to the countdown to the increase of electricity tariffs, bus fares and other commodities," Lalkantha said.

He pointed out that the miracle boasted by the government has compelled school children to steal coconuts to maintain schools and patients having to purchase their medicines from private pharmacies despite a free health service in the country.

"The dawn of the Miracle of Asia does not seem to be happening any time soon," Lalkantha added.