Sri Lanka Police have introduced a special traffic plan in Kandy in view of the first Kumbal Perahera of the historic Kandy Esala Perahera, scheduled for tomorrow (18 August).
The first Kumbal Perahera will begin at 6.52 p.m. from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and proceed along Dalada Veediya, Colombo Street, Yatinuwara Street and Raja Veediya before returning to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The total distance of the procession route is 1.65 kilometres.
During the procession, special arrangements will be in place, including roadblocks, security duties, inspections of vehicles and individuals, guidance for tourists and designated vehicle parking arrangements.
Heavy vehicles travelling from Katugastota towards Kandy can enter the city via Tilak Ratnayake Mawatha from Mahaiyawa Junction through Police Junction. Light vehicles can use alternative routes via D.S. Senanayake Street, Cross Street and Yatinuwara Street.
Vehicles travelling from Thannekumbura and Ampitiya can proceed via Sangharaja Mawatha, Wales Park Junction and Ehelepola Kumarihami Mawatha. Vehicles can also enter Kandy city via Palliya Road from Rajapihilla Mawatha Junction.
Vehicles travelling from Kandy towards Ampitiya and Teldeniya can use alternative routes via Dalada Veediya and Sangharaja Mawatha. Vehicles travelling between Colombo and Kandy can use William Gopallawa Mawatha and the Old Peradeniya Road in both directions.
The Kandy Esala Perahera will be held from 18 to 28 August, and the Police will implement daily traffic plans throughout the festival period.
For emergencies: 081 223 3333 / 071 859 1045
Source: Police Media Division
