Kandy Braces for Thousands as Esala Perahera Security Tightened

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police have announced an extensive security and traffic management operation for the Kandy Esala Perahera 2026, which is scheduled to commence tomorrow, August 18.

Police Media Spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler said comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety and convenience of the large number of local and foreign devotees expected to attend the historic cultural and religious event over the next ten days.

According to Police, a total of 6,200 police officers, 564 Special Task Force personnel, 1,200 Tri-Forces members, Civil Security Department officers and intelligence personnel have been deployed for the duration of the pageant.

Authorities have also introduced a special traffic management plan to ease congestion in and around Kandy city during the Perahera period.

Police have established 13 designated parking facilities for the convenience of visitors and have requested motorists to make use of alternative routes to minimize delays and traffic congestion.

Motorists travelling from Katugastota towards Colombo or Nuwara Eliya via Peradeniya have been advised to use the Gohagoda Road near the Katugastota Bridge to reach Peradeniya.

Vehicles travelling from Colombo through Kandy towards Kurunegala, Matale and Mahiyanganaya have been advised to use the Peradeniya-Gohagoda route and continue via the designated alternative road network.

Meanwhile, motorists travelling from Kandy towards Mahiyanganaya and Badulla can use Dharmashoka Mawatha near the Mahaiyawa Tunnel and continue through Tennekumbura.

Police said the alternative routes have been introduced to help visitors save time and ensure a smoother travel experience during the festival season.

Among the parking locations made available for light vehicles are the KMC Car Park, Karaliya Car Park, Ehelepola Kumarihami Car Park, Sahas Uyana Car Park, Railway Station Car Park and a designated parking facility along the Gannoruwa Road.

Heavy vehicles can be parked at the Torrington Bus Stand, Bogambara Bus Stand, Aluthgama Dharmananda Mawatha Car Park, Clock Tower Bus Stand and the Rajapihilla Lower Parking Area near the YMBA.

Police officers have been stationed at all designated parking areas to provide guidance and assistance to visitors.

ASP Wootler assured that authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of all devotees and spectators attending the Esala Perahera and called on the public to extend their cooperation to security personnel.

He also urged visitors to enjoy the event in a respectful manner without causing inconvenience, disturbance or harm to others.

For emergencies, Police have established a special hotline, 081 223 3333, while Chief Inspector Rasika Sampath can also be contacted on 071 859 1045 for assistance related to security and traffic arrangements.

Police emphasized that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure the safe and successful conduct of one of Sri Lanka's most celebrated cultural and religious festivals.