Madhu, Esala festivals:

Combined transport service from Aug 20

Lakshmi DE SILVA

A combined special bus and train service will be provided for the pilgrims' convenience during the Madhu festival from August 13 to 15 and the Esala Perahera season from August 20 to 25, Transport Minister Kumara Welgama said at a press conference yesterday. Special train service would consist of 12 trains plying up to Medawachchiya station and from there a fleet of 40 buses would ply to and from Madhu during this season, the Minister said.

The public could purchase return tickets from Colombo Fort, Kalutara South, Moratuwa, Ja-Ela and Negombo stations to Madhu at a concessionary rate, he stated.

Resettlement Minister Milroy Fernando said this was the first time after 30 years that the people go to Madhu without any restrictions or security checks and the area around Madhu was cleared of land-mines.

Rev Benedict Joseph said they expect a larger crowd than previous years and the number would be around 600,000.

During the Esala Perahera season in addition to the 12 special trains 500 buses will provide a service in Kandy and other areas, Minister Welgama said. The train fare from Colombo to Kandy in the First Class is Rs 350, Second Class Rs 220 and Third Class Rs150, an official said.