People from all walks of life to Kataragama

Thennakoon BANDARA-Monaragala Daily News Corr:

People from all walks of life come from North and East to pay homage to god Kataragama by Pada Yatra pilgrimage, said Uva Chief Minister and Kataragama Basnayake Nilame Shasheendra Kumara Rajapaksa at the Esala festival committee meeting at Daya Gamage hall at Kirivehera.

Government officers and Non Governmental Organization representatives participated.

The meeting was held under the patronage of Moneragala District Secretary A. Pathinadan.

The Chief Minister said more than 50,000 foot pilgrims (Pada Yatra) are expected. They trudge their way to the sacred city and the officials have to ensure their basic facilities such as drinking water, health and protection.

Incumbent of Kirivehera and Uva Wellassa University Chancellor Ven.Dr.Aluthwewa Sortha said the theme of the Esala festival should be "Appreciate the humanity." Kataragama Pradeshiya Sabha chairman Chanaka Amil Rangana said the auction of land for vendors will be carried out through a tender procedure.

Ven.Kapugama Saranatissa of Abhinavaramaya and Chief Adhikarana Sanganayaka of Ruhunu Magam Pattuwa, Incumbent of Valli Guhawa Ven.Maliththe Gnanananda, Uva Provincial Secretary of Health Dr.Soumya Ambanwela, Kataragama Divisional Secretary, T.B.M.Atapattu, D.I.G. Hamabantota Range Nandana Wijeratne, ASP Upali Senanayake, Jayatilaka Balagalla, Senior Assistant Secretary of Presidential Secretary Pathmasiri Rajapakse also participated.