Traffic Restrictions in Multiple Areas Tonight Due to Esala Perahera

COLOMBO(News 1st); The 75th Bellanwila Esala Perahera and the Randoli Perahera are set to parade through the streets tonight.

The Bellanwila Esala Perahera, which began on July 30th, will conclude tomorrow morning following the traditional water cutting ceremony. 

This perahera, first held in 1950 by the late Venerable Bellanwila Sri Somarathana Thero, the former chief incumbent of the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya, has continued uninterrupted for 75 years.

Due to the procession, the police have announced traffic restrictions in the area. 

From 7:00 p.m. tonight, the 119 bus route from Boralesgamuwa Junction to Bellanthota Junction and the 117 bus route from Bellanthota Junction to Papiliyana Junction will be closed. 

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes during this time.

Meanwhile, traffic restrictions will also be in place around the Nawagamuwa Patthini Devalaya due to its annual Esala Perahera. 

The Avissawella-Colombo Old Road will be closed from Wele Junction and Ranala Junction from 9:00 p.m. tonight until 2:30 a.m. tomorrow. 

The same road will also be closed again from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. tomorrow. Drivers are urged to take alternate routes.

Additionally, the Esala Maha Perahera of the historic Modara Devalaya in Ambalangoda will take place along the Galle-Colombo main road from 9:00 p.m. tonight until 3:00 a.m. tomorrow. 

The police are requesting motorists to use other roads during that period.