Kandy – Security for the Kandy annual Esala Perahera beginning July 31 will be beefed up by deploying over 7000 strength of police personnel in addition tot he army cadres, Kandy senior SP, E. M. Gunatilake Banda disclosed at a meeting held to discuss programme for the big event in the Hill capital.

The meeting was held at the Kandy District Secretariat Summoned by the Kandy District Secretary (N) Gotabhaya Jayaratne.

SSP Gunatilaka Banda told the meeting that all persons and motor vehicles would be subjected to search on route of the pageant as well as at the main entrances to the city of Kandy.

Those entering the Mahamaluwa opposite the Sri Dalada Maligawa will be subjected to a through inspection.

The most Ven. Mahanayake of Asgiriya Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thero stressed the need to enhance security to the Perahera and the crowds of people entering the city of Kandy during the season.

It is the responsibility of the police and the forces to provide adequate security during the season in view of the crisis situation.

The prelate said that it was a risk to hold the Perahera but it was important to hold if because it was held in honour of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the gods as a ritual.

Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela Disclosing the programme for the pageant said the Perahera will continue from July 31 to August 10.

District Secretary and GA Gotabbaya Jayaratne and Kandy Mayor L. B. Aluwihare, Basnayake Nilame Rohan Paranagama, SP, Gamini Seneviratne, SP, C. K. D. Karunaratne and several others were present.