A comprehensive environmental protection initiative has commenced at the Sri Pada Sacred area to ensure a clean and sustainable pilgrimage season in upcoming season. Launched on November 25 by the Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, this national program focuses on preserving the delicate ecosystem of Sri Pada while enhancing facilities for pilgrims.

Ahead of the pilgrimage season, an intensive labor operation led by the Sri Lanka Army and the Special Task Force is underway to clear accumulated waste from the surroundings and hard to reach areas. This vital cleanup effort is designed to prevent environmental pollution caused by polythene and plastic waste. The operation will run continuously until November 29.

The cleanup campaign’s initial phase will culminate on November 29 with the participation of nearly three thousand volunteers in the “Clean Sri Lanka One Day Voluntary Cleanup Program” at the entrances of Nallathanniya and Palabaddala. This event highlights community engagement and collective responsibility for safeguarding the sacred site.

In a proactive step to make Sri Pada a polythene and plastic free zone during the pilgrimage season, the use of PET bottles smaller than one liter, single-use polythene and plastic items, and polythene sheets is officially banned. This measure is expected to significantly reduce plastic pollution in the area.

Adding to the efforts, the Sri Lanka Navy will conduct a dedicated labor operation on December 13 and 14 to clean the environment around the Mavussa Kale reservoir, further enhancing the ecological integrity of the region.

Long term improvements are also planned, including upgrading the water supply and sanitation systems within the sacred precinct of Sri Pada, establishing standardized shops along the pilgrimage route, building a fully equipped hospital in the Nallathanniya area, and installing safe vehicle shelters.

This large scale project falls under the Clean Sri Lanka National program and enjoys the support of numerous government and private entities. Key collaborators include the Ministry of Public Administration, Nuwara Eliya and Ratnapura District Secretariats, the Tri-Forces, local Pradeshiya Sabhas such as Ratnapura, Hatton Dickoya, Ambagamuwa and Nuwara Eliya, the Sri Lanka Police, volunteer groups, and environmental organizations, all united to protect the sanctity and environment of Sri Pada for generations to come.