• Facilities will be provided for the public to watch the live telecast  of the five Kumbal Peraheras, five Randoli Peraheras, and the day  Perahera over the television channels
• SSP Kandy Division said steps had already been taken to provide adequate protection to the Perahera 

By Shane Seneviratne  

The Kandy Esala Perahera Committee has decided to hold the Esala Perahera this year without public participation due to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa Praeep Nilanga Dela said. 

He said the decision was taken on the advice of the Mahanayakes of the Malwatta and Asgiriya Chapters.   He said the Esala festival would be held strictly adhering to the health guidelines and facilities would be provided for the public to watch the live telecast of the five Kumbal Peraheras, five Randoli Peraheras, and the day Perahera over the television channels. 

 
SSP Kandy Division K.Ratnayake said steps had already been taken to provide adequate protection to the Perahera. He said the public would not be allowed to enter the Perahera route. He said the police had received information that the owners of wayside hotels, business establishments, and tour guides were preparing to earn money by providing accommodation for the public to watch the Perehera and that steps would be taken to prevent it.  

Lekakadikari of the Malwatta Chapter Pahamune Sumangala Thera, Basnayake Nilames of the four Devalas, senior police officers and the representatives of organisations are providing services to conduct the festival. 

• Public will not be allowed to enter the Perahera route