President makes surprise inspection visit to Kandy to address issues around “Siri Dalada Wandanawa”

Saturday, 26 April 2025 01:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Disanayake

President Anura Kumara Disanayake conducted a late-night inspection tour of Kandy city on Wednesday (24), focusing on issues surrounding the ongoing “Siri Dalada Wandanawa” pilgrimage and ensuring adequate facilities for the large number of devotees arriving for the sacred event.

The President’s visit included a close assessment of the conditions at key religious and public access points and was followed by an urgent on-site meeting with relevant officials to address pressing concerns. The discussions cantered on improving public amenities, including sanitation, crowd management, and logistical arrangements for pilgrims visiting the Sri Dalada Maligawa, one of the most revered Buddhist shrines in the country.

The meeting was attended by Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation Minister K.D. Lalkantha, Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa Nilanga Dela Bandara, Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya, Army Commander Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, Central Province Governor Prof. Sarath Abeykoon, and Kandy District Secretary Indika Udawatte, among others.

President Disanayake emphasised the need for a coordinated response from all State agencies to ensure the safety, comfort, and spiritual dignity of devotees taking part in the annual religious observance. He directed officials to expedite measures that would improve sanitation, enhance security, and maintain smooth crowd flows, particularly during peak hours.