Police Announce Special Security Measures for Poson Festival

Sri Lanka Police have announced a series of special security and public safety measures ahead of the Poson festival, one of the most significant religious celebrations for Buddhists in the country after Vesak.

The main state religious observances this year will take place at the sacred sites of Atamasthana in Anuradhapura, Mihintale, and Thanthirimale Raja Maha Viharaya. In addition, Poson pandals, lantern displays, Poson zones, and dansals are expected to be organized across the island, attracting large numbers of devotees.

To ensure public safety and smooth conduct of the festival, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has instructed all police divisions to implement comprehensive security and traffic management plans. Mobile, foot, bicycle, and motorcycle patrols will be deployed around the clock, while additional traffic officers will be stationed in areas expected to experience heavy congestion.

Police said intelligence officers will also be deployed to monitor unlawful activities and narcotics-related offenses. Special attention will be given to preventing drunk driving, speeding, and reckless driving, with strict legal action to be taken against offenders.

Authorities warned that legal action will be taken against any individual or group engaging in activities that undermine the religious significance of the festival or inconvenience devotees.

The public has been urged to observe several guidelines during the Poson season, including avoiding excessive noise, unauthorized use of loudspeakers, improper parking, littering, and the consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs. Organizers of dansals have also been advised to follow health and safety regulations and implement proper crowd management measures.

Police further requested devotees to exercise caution when bathing in tanks and reservoirs, safeguard personal belongings, and pay special attention to children and elderly persons in crowded areas.

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities to nearby police officers and share video footage related to road accidents via WhatsApp on 070-4755600. For emergencies and police assistance, the public can contact the Police hotlines 118 and 119.

Sri Lanka Police called on the public to cooperate with the guidelines and participate in Poson observances peacefully, safely, and respectfully.