Colombo is gearing up for a high-security, high-alert cricket carnival as police roll out an island-wide security and traffic operation to manage crowds, safety, and matchday chaos during the T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka Police have announced a comprehensive special security and traffic management plan centered around Colombo in preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup matches. The plan will be in effect from March 7 to March 8, covering key areas surrounding the Maligawatta R. Premadasa Stadium and the SSC Stadium in Cinnamon Gardens, where several high-profile matches will be played.
With thousands of local and international cricket fans expected to descend on the capital, authorities say the measures are essential to ensure public safety, smooth traffic flow, and uninterrupted match operations. The tournament, scheduled from March 7 to March 8, will feature multiple international fixtures hosted in Colombo, placing the city under heightened security focus.
More than 2,100 police officers have been deployed across Colombo to enforce both security and traffic regulations. Police have strictly prohibited spectators from carrying large bags, glass bottles, drone equipment, sharp objects, drugs, or alcohol into stadium premises. All spectators will be subject to security screening.
For matches at the R. Premadasa Stadium, traffic restrictions will be imposed on several access roads including Vinson Perera Mawatha, Brito Babapulle Bridge Place Junction, Sebastian Ela Road near Malwatte Bridge, Temple Road Junction from 100 Feet Road, and Maligawatte Lane near the stadium. Traffic restrictions will be enforced as required during match hours.
Key matches at the R. Premadasa Stadium include Sri Lanka vs Ireland on February 8, India vs Pakistan on February 15, and Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe on February 19, 2026. On these dates, special traffic arrangements and shuttle transport services will be in operation. Parking has been arranged at the stadium parking lot, Grandpass Police Division Mati Park, while shuttle services will operate from the old MOD parking lot and Port City parking area.
On other match days at the stadium, including February 11, 13, 21, 25, and 27, additional parking facilities will be available at Grandpass Mati Park, Sathosa Car Park, Sebastian Ela Car Park, Kovila Road, Apple Watta, and both sides of the 100 Feet Road.
Separate traffic restrictions will apply around the SSC Stadium on February 7, 9, 10, 14, and 18. Roads affected include Maitland Place from Government Administration Junction, Vidya Mawatha from Wijerama Junction, and surrounding access routes. Designated parking areas include the SSC Stadium, SSC Sports Club, Nidahas Mawatha, Foundations Road, CR&FC grounds, Old McDonald’s parking lot under the Ministry of Sports, Rupavahini parking area, and BMICH premises.
Police urge the public to cooperate fully with officers on duty and to use public transport and shuttle services where possible to avoid congestion during this major international sporting event.
