Last year’s Kataragama Esala Perahera saw the collection of 1,500 tons of waste, including four tons of PET bottles, marking a drop in plastic waste due to awareness campaigns. 

Ahead of this year’s festival 26 June to 10 July, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) urges devotees to minimize plastic use and dispose of waste responsibly. 

Authorities have introduced eco-friendly initiatives, including luggage checks, awareness materials, and designated disposal sites. 

The CEA stresses that preserving the sacred site depends on the public’s active participation.