The Ministry of Public Administration has directed all Government institutions to hoist the national flag for a week in honor of Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day. 

Accordingly, the ministry also called for the suspension of decorative lighting to conserve energy.

In preparation for the Independence Day celebrations at Independence Square, Colombo, 1,650 police and Special Task Force (STF) members have been deployed. 

A special traffic plan has been implemented to ensure smooth conduct of the event. 

This year’s celebration will be without the traditional Presidential salute.