Special security, traffic plan in place for SL–Zimbabwe clash

Colombo , Feb 19 (Daily Mirror) - Police will implement a special security programme and traffic plan in view of the Sri Lanka–Zimbabwe T20 World Cup match scheduled to be played at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo this afternoon (19).

The Group B encounter is set to commence at 3.00 p.m., with stadium gates scheduled to open at 12 noon.

Addressing a special media briefing in Colombo, Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Traffic Control and Road Safety, W.P.J. Senadheera urged spectators to arrive early to avoid congestion and ensure smooth security and traffic management.

He said that the same special security and traffic arrangements that were in place during the India–Pakistan match will be implemented for today’s fixture as well.

“We especially request spectators to arrive from noon onwards, as the gates will be opened at that time. Arriving early will help prevent traffic congestion and make it easier for us to carry out our duties,” he said.

DIG Senadheera also noted that parking will be strictly prohibited on several roads from 12 noon, while vehicular movement on roads leading to the stadium will be restricted during the match hours.

Accordingly, parking and traffic restrictions will be enforced on Sangaraja Mawatha, Sumanadisi Mawatha, Vincent Perera Mawatha, Britto Babapulle Place, Temple Road, Khettarama Road, Sebastian Canal Road, 100-foot Road, Sri Bodhiraja Mawatha, Maligawatte Lane, Jumma Masjid Road, Pradeepa Mawatha and Saddharma Mawatha.

Police have meanwhile designated six parking areas for spectators. The stadium car park, with a capacity of 165 vehicles, will be reserved for VIP, VVIP pass holders and media personnel.

Additional parking has been allocated at the Sathosa grounds and Railway yard for around 500 light vehicles including cars, vans, motorcycles and three-wheelers. Further parking spaces have been assigned along Sebastian Canal Road (from the first bridge to the second bridge) for 80 vehicles, Applewatte for 150 vehicles, Kovil Road for 200 vehicles and both sides of Adi Seya Road for approximately 150 vehicles.

Police urged the public to follow traffic instructions and use designated parking areas to minimise inconvenience and ensure public safety during the match.