Sri Lanka Police will implement a special traffic and security plan from tomorrow (18) in view of the annual Kandy Esala Perahera.
Police Media Spokesman Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler said the special arrangements will remain in effect throughout the Perahera season.
The Kumbal Perahera of the Sri Dalada Maligawa will begin tomorrow and continue until August 22, while the Randoli Perahera will be held from August 23 to 27.
The special plan will cover traffic control, roadblock duties, security checks, vehicle and pedestrian inspections, guidance for tourists and the management of designated parking areas.
Police also announced that a dedicated emergency hotline, 081 22 33 333, has been established for the general public attending the Perahera who may require urgent assistance.
Additionally, Chief Inspector of Police Rasika Sampath can be contacted on 071 859 1045 for further assistance, Police Media Spokesman Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler noted.
Over 8,000 Security Personnel Deployed
Police said 6,200 police officers, 564 Special Task Force personnel, 1,200 tri-forces personnel and 29 Civil Security Department personnel will be deployed for security duties during the Perahera.
Police canine units will also be deployed as part of the security arrangements.
Security will be further strengthened through roadblock duties covering 14 entry points to Kandy city during the period of the Dalada Perahera.
Alternative Routes for Kandy Esala Perahera
Police have announced the following alternative routes for motorists during the Kandy Esala Perahera:
Vehicles travelling from Katugastota towards Colombo and Nuwara Eliya via Peradeniya: Motorists can use the Gohagoda Road near the Katugastota Bridge to reach Peradeniya.
Vehicles travelling from Colombo through Kandy towards Kurunegala, Matale and Mahiyanganaya:
Motorists can travel via the Peradeniya– Gohagoda Road, with routes available towards Kurunegala and Matale and towards Mahiyanganaya via Madawala.
Vehicles travelling from Kandy towards Mahiyanganaya and Badulla:
Motorists can use Dharmashoka Mawatha near the Mahaiyawa Tunnel and proceed via Thennekumbura towards Badulla and Mahiyanganaya.
13 Designated Parking Areas
Police said 13 parking areas will be designated for visitors attending the Perahera.
Of these, six parking areas will be allocated for light vehicles and seven for heavy vehicles.
Parking areas for light vehicles:
KMC Car Park
Karaliya Car Park
Ehelepola Kumarihami Mawatha Car Park
Sahas Uyana Car Park
Car Park near the Railway Station
One-side parking area along the Gannoruwa Road
Parking areas for heavy vehicles:
Torrington Bus Stand
Bogambara Bus Stand
Aluthgama Dhammananda Mawatha Car Park
Clock Tower Bus Stand
Car Park along the Children’s Home Road from Railway Station Junction
Car Park inside Bogambara Prison
Rajapihilla Bus Stand near the YMBA
Motorists and visitors have been advised to use the designated alternative routes and parking facilities during the Perahera period.
