Colombo is set to host the 77th Independence Day celebrations tomorrow morning (February 4), centered around Independence Square and the surrounding Independence Avenue area.
Speaking at a special media briefing today (February 3), Police Media Spokesperson SSP Buddhika Manatunga announced that over 1,000 police officers have been deployed to ensure security during the event. Due to the anticipated large turnout, attendees will be screened before entering the venue.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Road Safety Indika Hapugoda has advised all invitees to arrive before 7:00 a.m. and be seated promptly. Members of the public attending the event must enter via Bauddhaloka Mawatha, where security checks will be conducted near the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation premises before directing them to their designated seating areas.
To facilitate the event, a special traffic plan will be in effect, resulting in temporary road closures and restrictions around the celebration venue. The following roads will be closed to the public:
- Bauddhaloka Mawatha
- Torrington Junction
- Premakeerthi de Alwis Mawatha
- R.S.P. Junction (towards State Administration)
- Wijerama Vidya Mawatha
- Independence Avenue (from Independence Roundabout to Maitland Crescent)
- Stanley Wijesundara Mawatha (from Foundation Mawatha Junction to Independence Avenue)
- Library Roundabout to Horton Roundabout
- Foundation Junction to Independence Avenue
Residents in the restricted areas will be granted access upon presenting valid identification.
To minimize traffic congestion, authorities have provided the following alternative routes for vehicles entering Colombo:
- Vehicles from Nanda Motors can turn right at Independence Roundabout and proceed via Philip Gunawardena Mawatha, Stanley Wijesundara Mawatha, and Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards Thummulla and Borella Cemetery.
- Vehicles traveling from Bauddhaloka Mawatha to Horton Roundabout can use Wijerama Mawatha.
- Vehicles traveling from Wijerama Junction can proceed towards Borella Cemetery and Thummulla.
The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has emphasized a cost-efficient approach to this year’s Independence Day celebrations while ensuring minimal public inconvenience and encouraging greater public participation.
As part of cost-cutting measures, the deployment of tri-service personnel has been reduced by 40%, and the military parade will not feature tri-service armored vehicles.
Authorities urge the public to plan their travel accordingly and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a smooth and successful celebration.
