Police issue traffic, security plan for Vesak season

Colombo, May 21 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Police has announced a comprehensive island-wide security and traffic management programme ahead of Vesak Full Moon Poya Day on May 30, 2026, to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for devotees nationwide.

With large crowds expected at temples, religious sites, pandals, lantern displays, and other Vesak attractions, police said the initiative will help maintain public order while minimising inconvenience to the public engaging in Amisa Pooja (material offerings) and Prathipatti Pooja (spiritual practices).

Under the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), all police stations have been instructed to implement special traffic management measures around major event locations. Day and night mobile patrols, along with targeted security operations, will also be deployed island-wide. Authorities warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone who disrupts public order or undermines the sanctity of the festival.

Accordingly, the public is kindly requested to pay special attention to the following guidelines to maintain peace and uphold the religious significance of the Vesak season: 

Refrain from engaging in Olubakkan dancing, wearing face coverings, behaving indecently, or dressing in inappropriate and distorted costumes that diminish the dignity and sacredness of the Vesak festival. 

Avoid playing excessively loud music in public places that may disturb or inconvenience others.  Refrain from playing loud music or songs that are unsuitable for the Vesak festival near Dansal and Pandal sites. 

Use loudspeakers responsibly, without causing a disturbance to others, and obtain the required legal permissions before use.  Visitors attending Vesak celebrations are requested to abstain from alcohol and narcotic substances. 

Organizers conducting Dansal programs should strictly adhere to proper health and safety guidelines.  Appropriate crowd management measures should be implemented near Dansal premises to prevent traffic disruptions and congestion. 

Avoid parking vehicles on both sides of roads in a manner that obstructs traffic flow. 

Dispose of waste responsibly instead of releasing it into the environment.  Pay special attention to the safety of children and elderly persons in crowded areas. 

Take necessary precautions to safeguard you valuable personal belongings from theft. 

Remain alert regarding suspicious individuals and immediately notify the nearest police officer if any suspicious activity is observed.

In order to reduce road accidents, relevant video footage may be reported immediately via WhatsApp to 070-4755600. Complaints regarding vehicles emitting excessive smoke can be reported to WhatsApp number 070-3500525 for legal action. 

In addition, the public is requested to contact the Sri Lanka Police through the emergency hotlines 118 and 119 in the event of any incident requiring police assistance.