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Vaccination proof mandatory for Sri Pada

15 Dec 2021

An extraordinary gazette notification has been published, specifying the regulations coming into effect during the Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) pilgrimage season which commences on 18 December 2021, and ends on 16 May 2022, which makes it mandatory for the pilgrims to keep their Covid-19 vaccination card or a copy of the same during the pilgrimage.  The communiqué, dated 13 December, was issued by Ratnapura District Secretary Malani Lokupothagama.  Further to the proof of vaccination, the gazette notification states that pilgrims must wear facemasks, maintain distance, and follow proper health guidelines and noted that they are not allowed to stay in the Sri Pada compound but leave once they conclude religious observances. Further, the District Secretary said marketing and alms-halls should be conducted subject to relevant health guidelines. Accordingly, hawkers are not allowed to sell anything within Sri Pada compound and restroom premises, and along the route due to the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic situation. Selling pooja items, pooja trays, food items, or other commodities is not permitted at any place except the places where permission was granted by the District Secretary or any other authorised officer. Meanwhile, carrying along the pilgrims’ route or storing, selling, or purchasing at boutiques and consuming any liquor, cigarettes, or any other narcotic substances are strictly prohibited. No person shall establish, maintain any permanent or temporary boutique, or conduct business therein on either side of access roads except at the places already permitted, the gazette notification added. The District Secretary said permission will not be granted to undertake alms-halls. However, alms-halls for distribution of facemasks and sanitary items can be undertaken at the starting point of the pilgrims’ route, only by the persons who essentially need to conduct such alms-halls. Prior written permission from the District Secretary or from any other authorised officer shall be obtained for such purpose.


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