CBSL issues guidelines on flood-affected currency notes
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has issued a set of guidelines for handling currency notes damaged by floods.The Central Bank advises the public to follow these guidelines to prevent further damage to the notes and to ensure proper handling.
The instructions are as follows:
01. Separating wet currency notes
– Handle wet currency notes very carefully and gently
– If the notes are stuck together, avoid pulling them apart at once
– Place the stuck notes between an absorbent material to slowly dry at room temperature
– If the notes do not separate, immerse the bundle briefly in clean cold or lukewarm water, then gently loosen the notes by holding one edge and lightly shaking the bundle to separate the notes
Do not use hot water, detergents or chemicals
02. Drying the currency notes
– Each note should be placed on a clean, dry surface (soft cloth, paper, tissue) which should not be coloured or printed
– Allow the notes to air-dry naturally in a well-ventilated place
– Do not use an iron, heater or any direct high-temperature source
03. Presenting for exchange
– Once the notes are completely dry, any that are unfit for further use in transactions may be presented for exchange at any commercial bank.