Sri Lanka, Aug. 25 -- The procurement of advanced cancer radiation treatment machines for Sri Lanka's public health system has been delayed for nearly five years, putting the lives of thousands of cancer patients at risk, Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights Chairman Specialist Dr Chamal Sanjeewa said.

He alleged that a prolonged "tug-of-war" between health officials and certain specialists had stalled the procurement of linear accelerators, which are to be purchased through funding involving the Asian Development Bank and the General Treasury.

He said the procurement process, which was expected to be completed during the tenure of former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, was halted following revelations before the Par...