Over 1.5 Mn Devotees Expected In Anuradhapura
- The National Poson Festival will be held centering on the sacred sites of Mihintale, the Anuradhapura Atamasthana, and the Thanthirimale Rajamaha Viharaya.More than 1.5 million devotees are expected to visit Anuradhapura during this year's Poson season.To ensure the safety of pilgrims, over 3,500 police officers have been deployed for security and traffic management duties throughout the festival period.Police have also urged the public to check both vehicle condition and driver fitness in order to minimize road accidents.Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Life Saving says more than 500 lifeguards have been deployed on special duty to safeguard the public.Its Chief Executive Officer Asanka Nanayakkara said that, in addition to the usual patrol locations, lifeguards have also been deployed to 50 additional sites this year. The lifeguard teams have been assigned to key areas in Puttalam, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa.Meanwhile, the Excise Department announced that all liquor outlets across the country will remain closed today in line with the Poson Full Moon Poya Day.In line with the State Poson Festival, liquor stores within the Mihintale, Nuwara Eliya Central, Nuwara Eliya East, and Mahawilachchiya Divisional Secretariat divisions will remain closed until July 2.The Department further stated that all Excise Officers have been instructed to take strict legal action against any liquor outlet owners who violate the directive.
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