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Siripada pilgrims urged not to use Nallateniya entrance
As part of measured to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, Siripada pilgrims have been advised not to use the most-preferred Hatton-Nallateniya entrance until February next year to climb the sacred mountain.
The pilgrimage season ceremonially begins on Tuesday December 29, Unduvap Poya Day.
In a statement, Central Province Governor Lalith U. Gamage urged the pilgrims not to use the Nallateniya entrance until February. The decision was taken after talks with the health authorities of the area which has, in recent weeks, reported several COVID-19 cases.
However, Sabragamuwa Governor Tikiri Kobbekaduwa told the Sunday Times pilgrims could climb the mountain from the Ratnapura-Kuruwita entrance, provided they followed the health instructions, which, among other regulations, require pilgrims to register themselves with the Divisional Secretariat of their area of residence. They will also undergo health checks by Public Health Officers.
At an earlier meeting, it was decided by the two governors that only 200 pilgrims would be allowed to climb the mountain from the four entrances on the first day, given the need to maintain the physical distance between the pilgrims and follow other health instructions.
The pilgrimage season continues till April.