‘Happy Streets’ event leaves Marine Drive covered in trash

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The “Happy Streets” event, held on August 3 from 6 AM to 11 PM along the Colpetty stretch of Marine Drive, ended with streets covered in garbage, leaving many disappointed the next morning. 

Billed as Sri Lanka’s first official street nightlife, the event included music concerts, yoga zones, Zumba sessions, street games, a car show, and food stalls.    While thousands attended and enjoyed the activities, the aftermath was far from pleasant.   By dawn yesterday, the area was filled with used food boxes, plastic bottles, bags, coconut shells, and other wastes.    Photos show trash scattered across the road and pavements, with crows rummaging through the mess.  Garbage bags were left open, and the once-clean stretch looked more like a dumping ground. However, organisers have not yet responded to the situation.  Several attempts to contact organisers failed.