In pictures: Independence Day rehearsals amid health restrictions

Rehearsals in preparation for celebrations to mark the 73rd Independence anniversary will be continued until February 3, Deputy Inspector General of Police Ajith Rohana said.

Accordingly all motorists have been told to avoid the area around the independence square between 6.00 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. while on the day of the independence celebrations roads will be closed between 4.00 a.m. and 1.00 p.m.

Meanwhile celebrations this time will be held without the public while the number of invitees has also been reduced.

Journalists have been requested to undergo PCR tests on Tuesday before they come to cover the ceremony.

Additional Secretary of the Home Affairs Division K.G Dharmathilaka told the Sunday Times that even though they are reducing the number of invitees by 50 per cent they are to bear 50 per cent more costs to maintain COVID -19 safety protocols.

He said that the home affairs Ministry is in charge of the politicians and the guests invited to bear witness of the event, and therefore they have planned to temperature-check the invitees and carry out antigen tests via health authorities if necessary.

The first rehearsal was held yesterday (30) under health precautions.

(Pix by M.A.Pushpakumara)