The Sri Paada pilgrimage season will see a major crackdown on plastics and polythene from 2025, following Cabinet approval, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa announced.
The six-month pilgrimage, starting in December, draws thousands of devotees each year, generating significant amounts of waste in the ecologically sensitive Sri Paada zone, which is protected under the Flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance.
Under the Environment Ministry’s new resolution, a series of measures will be enforced to safeguard the area:
A ban on the sale or carrying of polyethylene wrappers, shopping bags, sachet packets, expanded polystyrene products, and single-use utensils such as cups, plates, spoons, forks, knives, and straws.
Prohibition of single-use plastic water bottles and soft drink bottles smaller than one litre.
Disposal of polythene covers, food, pharmaceutical products, or other goods in the sensitive zone will be strictly banned.
Sales outlet owners will be responsible for managing waste from products sold within the area.
Measures will be taken to prevent pollution of water fountains and waterways.
Stall owners must transport all construction- and sale-related plastic waste out of the zone and hand it over to the relevant local authorities for proper disposal.
The Ministry of Environment said the initiative aims to protect the unique ecosystem of Sri Paada while providing pilgrims with a cleaner and safer experience.
