05th July 2023 11:00:00 Hours
Troops of Security Force (Central), based in Kataragama under 12 Infantry Division, made immense efforts to facilitate the earnest devotees of annual Kataragama Esala Festival during their month long traditional foot pilgrimage (Paada Yaatra) from many parts of the island to Kataragama that commenced on 12 June 2023.
Pilgrims from North and East regions travelling towards Kataragama through Kumbukkanoya and Katagamuwa areas were provided a safe passage day and night by the troops of 23 Battalion of the Gaba Regiment. Not limited to security, the Army troops offered pure water, sanitary facilities and first-aid to all devotees, extending their warmest welcome. Assisting the well-wishers in the area, Army troops offered free eateries (Dansala) to the wave of more than 27000 pilgrims entering the Yala Strict Natural Reserve on the long jungle trek to Kataragama. At the end of the ‘Paada Yaatra’, Troops in close collaboration with social workers conducted a cleanup drive inside the natural reserve.
The annual festive season of Kataragama Ruhunu Maha Devalaya started on 19 June, saw thousands devotees and sightseers on each day of the street procession that paraded through streets, until the Esala Full Moon Poya day on 03 July 2023. More than 11000 devotees and visitors shared free meals served in the Dansala that was held throughout season with the coordination of Army troops.
During the religious event, on the directives of Security Force Headquarters (Central) troops belong to 20 Battalion Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment and 3 Battalion Sri Lanka National Guard, were deployed to ensure the security of the sacred city of Kataragama and supported the Sri Lanka Police to maintain law and order in the premises and circumferences.
