Special security for Madhu Feast

Bandula Seneviratne, Vavuniya North and Bandara Vipulasena, Vavuniya Central special corr.

The police has implemented a special security plan to ensure a peaceful Madhu Feast this year and cater to the safety of vast crowds expected during the festival season, DIG (North) Nimal Leuke told a press conference held in Vavuniya yesterday (August 7).

He said devotees coming on pilgrimage to Madhu from the South and other parts of the country can proceed to Madhu through Medawachchiya without a hassle. Pilgrims should register themselves at the entrance to the shrine by filling a form available at all Churches, Police stations and SSPs offices throughout the country. Pilgrims visiting Madhu between August 6 and 11 have to return the same day through Medawachchiya.

Those coming from August 12 to 16 will be allowed to stay over at the sacred area.

Pilgrims coming from August 6 to 11 could pass through Medawachchiya between 6 am and 12 noon daily, while those coming on August 12 and 13 can pass through Medawachchiya from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Those on the return journey from August 6 to 13 should pass through Medawachchiya check point before 10 p.m. daily while those returning on August 14 should pass through same before 12 midnight. On August 15 and 16 those returning should pass through Medawachchiya before 10 p.m. and on August 17 they should do so before 2 p.m. The public will not be allowed to stay back in the sacred area after August 17.

Liquor and meat would not be permitted in the sacred area, said Rev. Fr. David Alexander Silva, Media Co-ordinator of the Madhu shrine. Drinking water, health and all other facilities will be provided to pilgrims without restriction. Pilgrims will be allowed to park small vehicles near their camping tents. There will be a special park for vans.