Tight security measures in place for nominations

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

At least 1,000 police officers, including members of the Special Task Force, will be deployed around the Election Commission and surrounding areas on Thursday (15) to maintain security and law and order during the Presidential Election nomination submissions.

Police said that an additional 300 traffic police officers will be deployed to manage traffic and ensure order.

Acting Police Spokesman DIG Ruwan Gunasekera said that a special traffic plan will be implemented in the area on Thursday.

Nominations for the Presidential Election will be accepted from 9 a.m. on August 15, with objections allowed until 11 a.m. that day. As of Tuesday, around 33 candidates have placed their deposits.

The spokesman also said that separate zones will be designated for each candidate’s supporters near the Election Commission. He said that roadblocks will be established throughout the area, and a police mobile patrol unit will also be deployed. Special security measures and the traffic plan will be in effect from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on August 15. Vehicles carrying presidential candidates will be permitted to access the Election Commission without delays.

Two telephone numbers, Director of Colombo City Traffic via 0718591741 and Police Emergency Unit via 0112-433333, have been provided for candidates to contact the police if they encounter difficulties due to traffic.
The spokesman said the lane of vehicles exiting Colombo will be closed from Ayurveda Junction to Rajagiriya Junction on Sri Jayawardanapura Road from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vehicles travelling towards Colombo from Rajagiriya Junction to Ayurveda Junction will also be restricted during the period.

Motorists are advised to avoid using Sri Jayawardanapura Road from Polduwa Junction to D.S. Senanayake Junction during this period unless there is an emergency.