The kap planting ceremony took place yesterday. The festival organised on the instructions of Viharadipathi Kiri Vehera Raja Maha Viharaya Ven. Kobawaka Damminda Thera, will be held for 15 days.

Arrangements have been made to provide water, electricity, health and sanitary facilities, transport, food and lodging to devotees who throng the Kataragama Devalaya during the festive season. The police and the security forces will provide security. Police said that a tight security net will be in operation in and around Kataragama and Sella Kataragama for the protection of the devotees.

Pada Yathra pilgrims from the North and East will be provided facilities.