Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Reports indicate the Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF) plans to hold a demonstration march starting from Lipton Circus moving towards the University Grants Commission at Ward Place (Colombo 7) at 2 PM today (Monday, April 3, 2023). Approximately 1,000 people are expected to participate. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Reports indicate the Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF) plans to hold demonstrations in front of the Fort Railway Station and/or Victoria Park from 2 PM today (Tuesday, March 7, 2023). Approximately 2,000 people are expected to participate. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Multiple unions, associations, and groups have called for strikes and protests today (March 1, 2023). These protests are expected to begin from around 10 AM. Some of the protests could be large, but currently appear to be focused on the relevant office or place of work rather than public spaces. …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Reports indicate Electricity Board employees plan to hold a demonstration in front of the Electricity Board Head Office in the Fort Area around 10 AM today (February 27). Approximately 1000 people are expected to participate in the demonstration. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Reports indicate the trade unions of the Electricity Board, Sri Lankan Ports Authority, Sri Lankan Petroleum, the Water Board, and state banks plan to hold demonstrations near Fort Railway at 12:30 PM today (February 22). 1500 to 2000 people are expected to participate in the demonstration. Even peaceful demonstrations …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Due to the Sri Lankan Independence Day preparations and festivities, road closures will be in effect around the U.S. Embassy in Colombo from February 1-3 between 6 AM and 12 PM (rehearsals) and on February 4 from 4 AM to 12 PM (parade). These closures will impact Marine Drive (along the ocean) and …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Sri Lankans have announced plans via social media to hold a pro-government demonstration in the Galle Face area on Sunday, December 18, 2022, from approximately 12:00 PM. 800-1000 people are expected to participate in the demonstration. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Opposition political parties, civil society organizations, trade unions, and university students intend to participate in a protest march at approximately 2 PM today (November 2). People will gather at Technical Junction and Elphinstone Junction, then proceed to Fort Railway. 5,000 people are expected to participate. Traffic may be affected during the …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Opposition political parties, civil society organizations, trade unions, and university students intend to march at 2 PM today (October 27) from Hyde Park (near Hilton Residences) toward the Fort area. About 10,000 people are expected to participate in this planned protest. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: The Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF) has announced a planned protest march today at approximately 2:00 PM from Kelaniya University (Kandy Road), passing along Baseline Road, Maligawatta, Technical Junction Maradana, and ending at Fort Railway.Between 1000-1500 people are expected to participate. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The Trade Unions Assembly, Trade Unions Coordination Center, and some political parties have announced a planned protest at 2:00 PM today, Friday, September 16, 2022, starting in the vicinity of Town Hall with plans to march towards Hyde Park (near Hilton Residences). The protest is estimated to have 1000 participants. Even …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF) has announced a planned protest for 2:00 PM today (Tuesday, August 30, 2022), in the vicinity of Maradana Railway Station in Colombo 10 (near Elphinston Theater) with plans to march towards Fort Railway Station. The protest is estimated to have about 1200 participants. Even peaceful …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF) has announced a planned protest in the vicinity of Lipton (De Soysa) Circus from 1:00 PM today (Thursday, August 18). The protest is estimated to have 1500-2000 participants. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The U.S. Embassy is aware of the following planned demonstrations for tomorrow (Tuesday, August 9, 2022): A group planning to protest near Fort Railway Station at 10:00 a.m. A group of several thousand planning to march from Victoria Park to Independence Square at 3:00 p.m. The protest may cause congested roads in …
Read More»On July 31, 2022, the United States conducted a precision counterterrorism strike in Afghanistan that killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s deputy and successor as leader of al-Qa’ida. Al- Zawahiri was one of the masterminds of the attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, and had continued to urge his followers to attack …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Update: The road closures near the Secretariat, Galle Face Green, Shangri-La Residences, and Kollupitiya Junction have been removed. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. For Assistance: U.S. Embassy – Colombo, Sri Lanka +94 77-725-8500 Phone +94 77-725-6307 Phone (after hours) ColomboACS@state.gov State Department …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Road closures are currently set up by the Military in several places in Colombo, including near the Secretariat, Galle Falle Green, and Kollupitiya Junction. Actions To Take: Monitor local media for updates. For Assistance: U.S. Embassy – Colombo, Sri Lanka +94 77-725-8500 Phone +94 77-725-6307 Phone (after hours) …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Student groups have announced plans to protest today (July 19, 2022) from 12:00 PM near Colombo University. The group may move towards the Parliament complex. Approximately 1000-1500 participants are expected. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The U.S. Embassy encourages Americans to avoid areas of demonstrations due to reports of recent violence. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. Actions to …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has announced plans to protest today (June 30, 2022) near Fort Railway Station (Colombo 01) at 3:00 PM. Approximately 2,000 participants are expected. This may cause traffic congestion in the area. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Calls for a country-wide “vehicle protest” on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM have been widely circulated on social media. The protest effort calls for all vehicles to stop in place along roads, blocking traffic, for the five-hour period. Although organizers request emergency vehicles be allowed to …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Several groups have announced plans to form a human chain from Temple Trees to the Presidential Secretariat on Saturday (June 18) from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This may cause congestion along Galle Road. Even peaceful demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking …
Read More»Date: June 9, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: A group is planning to protest outside the U.S. Embassy on Thursday, June 9 at 4:00 PM. Another group of about 1,000 people has announced plans to march from the GotaGoGama site at Galle Face Green to the Police Headquarters between 2:00 – 3:00 PM. The protest …
Read More»Date: June 3, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Several student groups and civil society organizations have announced plans to protest on Saturday (June 4, 2022) in Colombo, starting at 10:00 AM near Fort Railway Station and moving towards the President’s House and the Presidential Secretariat. Approximately 1500 participants are expected to march. The protest is likely to cause …
Read More»University students have announced plans to protest today (June 2, 2022) in Colombo, starting at 12:30 PM near Nelumpokuna roundabout and moving towards the University Grants Commission on Ward Place. Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: University students have announced plans to protest today (June 2, 2022) in Colombo, starting at 12:30 PM near …
Read More»Date: May 19, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: There will be a demonstration at 2:00 p.m. today, May 19 starting at Sri Jayawardenapura University (Gangodawila) and ending at Parliament Junction. Approximately 2000 participants are expected. There will be a demonstration at 12:00 p.m. today, May 19 at Fort Railway Station. Approximately 600 participants are expected. …
Read More»Date: May 18, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: There will be a demonstration at 2:00 p.m. today, May 18, starting at the Fort Railway Station and continuing to Police Headquarters. Approximately 2,000 participants are expected. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. Government personnel have been …
Read More»Date: May 5 and 6, 2022 Location: Multiple Locations, Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The U.S. Embassy is aware of the following demonstrations: May 5: A group of approximately 3,000 is planning to hold a demonstration the afternoon starting in front of Sir Jayewardenepura University (to the east of Mt. Lavinia) and marching to Parliament junction …
Read More»Date: May 4, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Ongoing Protest at Temple Trees in Colombo 3 The Fort Magistrate’s Court has issued an order for the removal of all the structures, vehicles and belonging of protesters near Temple Trees in Colombo 3. Police are expected to enforce this order starting at approximately 4:30 p.m. …
Read More»Date: April 27, 2022 Location: Multiple Locations, Sri Lanka Events: Multiple demonstrations and strikes are expected to occur in various cities throughout Sri Lanka on Thursday, April 28, 2022. Within the city limits of Colombo, a large group of at least 5000 people is expected to gather near Fort Railway Station at noon and march …
Read More»Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: · A demonstration march is expected to arrive in Colombo at approximately 3:00 p.m. today (April 19, 2022). The march commenced on April 17 in Beruwala, and the participants (several thousand) are making their way towards Colombo. The participants are expected to gather at the Town Hall/Lipton Circus area when …
Read More»There is a large planned two-day demonstration in Colombo on April 9 and 10. Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: A two-day demonstration is planned for Galle Face Green beginning at 9 AM on Saturday (April 9) and ending in the evening on Sunday (April 10). Reports estimate the possibility of upwards of 100,000 participants. U.S. government …
Read More»Date: April 7, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: There are several large demonstrations taking place in Colombo today (April 7): 1,000 student demonstrators gathering in Dehiwala who plan to march to Temple Trees by 3 PM, a static demonstration at Temple Trees around 5 PM, and a possible march from Kollupitiya Rail Station via Galle …
Read More»Date: April 6, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: There is a possible demonstration in front of the U.S. Embassy at 11 AM today. There are no additional details about the number of expected participants or the length of the demonstration. Please do not attempt to enter the Embassy compound during the demonstration as the gates …
Read More»Date: April 1, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: There have been calls for a large number of participants to gather for demonstrations in various cities throughout the island on Sunday, April 3, due to the current economic situation. Within the city limits of Colombo, Independence Memorial Hall has been designated as one of the venues …
Read More»There is a demonstration and march planned for today (Wednesday, March 23) at 2:00 PM. Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Jathika Jana Balawagaya (formerly FVP) is planning a demonstration tomorrow (March 23) at Delkanda Junction at 2:00 PM, then the demonstrators plan to march to Nugegoda Junction. 2,500-3,000 participants are expected. (see attached map) U.S. government …
Read More»Date: Friday, March 18, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Jathika Jana Balawagaya (JJB) has announced plans to hold a demonstration near Fort Rail Station and the Presidential Secretariat today (March 18) at 2:00 PM. 1,500-2,000 participants are expected to attend. Increased numbers of pedestrians are expected to walk along Galle Road. U.S. government personnel are advised …
Read More»Date: Tuesday, March 15, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Samagi Jana Balawagaya (SJB) has announced plans for a large demonstration on Galle Face Green tomorrow (March 15) at 2:00 PM. 10,000-15,000 participants are expected to attend, many arriving by bus from outside Colombo. The buses will be parked near Victoria Park and along Marine Drive. U.S. …
Read More»There are three demonstrations planned for today (Tuesday, March 8): two at 12:00 PM and one at 1:00 PM. Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The United National Party (UNP) will hold a demonstration at Parliament Circle on Sri Jayawardenapura Main Road, against the current economic crisis in Sri Lanka, at 12:00 PM. 200 participants are …
Read More»Date: Wednesday, March 2, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: The Front Line Socialist Party and other political parties have announced plans to demonstrate against the violence in Ukraine in front of the UN compound, near the University of Colombo, at 1:30 PM today. 200-250 participants are expected to attend. U.S. government personnel are advised to …
Read More»Date: Monday, February 28, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: A group of demonstrators are forming in front of the Russian Embassy now (8:30 AM) on Gregory’s Road. Reports suggest 200 participants are expected. The U.S. Embassy in Colombo anticipates impromptu gatherings to occur near the Russian Embassy in the coming days as well. U.S. …
Read More»Date: Thursday, February 24, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF) is organizing a demonstration and march today (February 24) beginning at 12:30 PM in front of the Fort Railway Station and proceeding to either the University Grants Commission or the Presidential Secretariat at Galle Face. 500-800 students are expected to participate. …
Read More»Date: February 18, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Events: Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF) is organizing a demonstration and march today (February 18) beginning at 12:30 PM in front of the Fort Railway Station and proceeding to either the University Grants Commission or the Presidential Secretariat. 400-500 students are expected to participate. U.S. government personnel are advised to …
Read More»Date: February 16, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Today (Wednesday, February 16) there will be a parade for the annual Gangaramaya Navam Maha Perahera in the area around Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple and Seema Malakaya Buddhist Temple and the lake. All roads directly surrounding the lake will have limited access or be closed beginning at …
Read More»February 14, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Approximately 1000-2000 health workers have gathered to conduct a demonstration towards the Presidential Secretariat, which is planned to last up to 3 hours. The march is occurring in the Colombo 2 area, beginning from the Fort Railway station towards the Presidential Secretariat. U.S. government personnel are advised …
Read More»February 1, 2022 Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Road closures will be in place effective immediately through February 4 as the Sri Lankan government conducts rehearsals and the performance of the 74th National Independence Day celebration. Vehicular movement will be restricted from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily and on February 4, restrictions will begin …
Read More»May 25, 2021 Location: Sri Lanka and Maldives Event: U.S. citizens may directly return to the United States with certain expired U.S. passports. If you are overseas and your passport expired on or after January 1, 2020, you may be able to use your expired passport to return directly to the United States until December …
Read More»July 22, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 2,730 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. American citizens with questions on entry requirements to the United States may visit the Department of Homeland Security COVID-19 website . Parliamentary elections are scheduled on 5 August 2020. Campaigning may lead to large, unplanned gatherings. The U.S. Embassy advises citizens to avoid large gatherings for reasons of …
Read More»June 4, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the …
Read More»March 20, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka. Event: The Sri Lankan government has declared an island-wide curfew beginning at 6:00 p.m. on March 20 until 06:00 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2020. Travel to the airport for ticketed passengers is exempted from the curfew. Additional curfews and checkpoints are possible with little notice in the immediate future. Actions …
Read More»March 18, 2020 Location: Puttalam and Negombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The Sri Lankan government has declared local curfews beginning at 4:30 p.m. on March 18, 2020 in Puttalam, Kochchikade, Negombo, and Chilaw. Additional curfews and checkpoints are possible with little notice in the immediate future. Actions to Take: – Follow the instructions of local authorities. – Monitor …
Read More»January 8, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka and Maldives. Event: Heightened Middle East Tensions. There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad. The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed. Actions to Take: Keep a low profile. Be …
Read More»Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: In acknowledgment of upcoming holidays, the U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the current Level 2 Travel Advisory (Exercise Increased Caution). Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural …
Read More»November 14, 2019 Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the potential for demonstrations before, during, and after the November 16, 2019, presidential election. There is no change to the current Level 2 Travel Advisory (“Exercise Increased Caution”). Actions to Take: – Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large …
Read More»Location: Presidential Secretariat, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Event: There currently is a student protest near the Presidential Secretariat. Police are responding and have reportedly used tear gas. Portions of Lotus Road are closed. The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Actions to Take: Avoid …
Read More»Location: US Embassy, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest of an estimated 20 people to be held in front of the U.S. Embassy today at 10:30 a.m. The protest should not impact embassy operations. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful …
Read More»Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: In acknowledgment of upcoming holidays, the U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the current Level 2 Travel Advisory (Exercise Increased Caution). Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural …
Read More»Date: July 23, 2019 Location: Fort, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest of an estimated 400 people to be held in front of Fort railway station beginning at approximately 3:30pm. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate …
Read More»Location: Kannaggara Mawatha – Lipton Circus – Ward Place, Colombo 07. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of an ongoing demonstration carried out by approximately 500 students from the Inter-University Students Federation (IUSF) in Colombo. Students are expected to gather at Nelum Pokuna Auditorium, Colombo 7, and march to the University Grants Commission (UGC) …
Read More»Location: Galle Road, Colombo 03. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a demonstration; approximately 1000-1500 students from the Inter-University Students Federation (IUSF) are scheduled to have a demonstration in Colombo today. Protesters are expected to travel along Duplication Road and may travel as far north as Temple Trees. The current route is unknown …
Read More»Location: 210, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest organized by the Socialist Students Union to be held in front of the Embassy today at approximately 1:00 p.m. The demonstration is expected to last approximately one hour and to be comprised of 100 protestors. Actions to Take: – …
Read More»May 16, 2019 Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: The Sri Lankan government has declared local and island-wide curfews recently due to communal unrest in the northwest region of the country. Additional curfews and checkpoints are possible with little notice over the coming holiday weekend. The U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the current Level 3 …
Read More»Location: Albert Crescent, Presidential Secretariat, Kolpetty Junction, and/or the University Grants Commission, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a scheduled demonstration of approximately 1,500 students on March 13, 2019. The protesters will gather near the University of the Visual and Performing Arts grounds on Albert Crescent at 2 p.m and are …
Read More»Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of an expected demonstration of up to 150 participants on February 8 at approximately 10:00 a.m. in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy, 210 Galle Road, Colombo 02. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can …
Read More»Location: Colombo 01, 02, 03, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that the following areas in Colombo will be affected with multiple road closures and delays from January 31 through February 04 due to the National Day parade and related activities. Thursday through Sunday, January 31 through February 4 Closed 7am to 12noon: …
Read More»Location: Colombo 03, Maradana, Town hall, Sri Lanka Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a political rally that will be held today at Galle Face Green. Approximately 50,000 people are expected to attend the event. Crowds may begin gathering as early as 11am. The rally is expected to begin at 1pm. Rally participants are …
Read More»Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that Wednesday, December 5, 2018, is declared a National day of Mourning for President George H. W. Bush. Accordingly, the U.S. Embassy and the American Center in Colombo will be closed to the public from 07:00 a.m. on December 5, 2018 and will re-open at …
Read More»Location: Lipton Circus, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a political demonstration of up to 15,000 participants on November 15 at approximately 2:00 p.m. at Lipton Circus, Colombo 02. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You …
Read More»Location: Nation-wide. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens of the probability of nationwide protests on November 4, 2018. Additionally, a large protest is scheduled for 2:00 pm on November 5, 2018, near Parliament in Colombo. U. S. citizens are reminded of an increased likelihood of civil unrest, strikes, and demonstrations stemming from continuing political …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has been notified of an expected protest today at 1300 at Galle Face Green. The Embassy has also received word that a separate group will be gathering in the Maligawatte area at 1300 to march to Galle Face Green, possibly to join up with the first group. Expect heavy traffic and congestion …
Read More»The U. S. Embassy informs U. S. citizens that a demonstration by the Front Line Socialist Party is planned in front of the US Embassy today, Tuesday, 17th October 2017. Although the time and expected size of the protest have not been confirmed, it could begin as early as 10 am, and involve up to …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest scheduled to take place today by the JVP and University students against SITAM Private Medical College. Approximately 3000-5000 protestors will assemble in several small towns outside of Colombo and march toward Lipton Circus, planning to arrive at approximately 2:20 PM (see the below map for possible …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that approximately 1,000 people are currently demonstrating near Parliament. At this time Parliament Road is closed to traffic. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information that at approximately 3:00pm today there will be a religious procession of between 400 and 500 people starting at St. Michael’s Road. The procession will continue onto Galle Road (in front of the embassy), Rotunda Gardens, Pittala Junction, Duplication Road, and back up Galle Road to St. Michael’s. There …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information about a protest that is underway at Galle Face Green. About 100 people carrying Indian flags are gathered may intend on protesting outside the Indian High Commission. At this time the group is not blocking traffic or creating problems in the area. Please take note if you plan on transiting …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information about a student protest that is underway that began from Fort Railway Station today. About 600 students were marching towards Ceramic Junction. At this time Lotus Road is closed to traffic from the Ceramic Junction up to Galle Face. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be …
Read More»U.S. Embassy Colombo has been made aware of an increase in incidents involving Tuk-tuk drivers in the Colombo area inappropriately touching female passengers. The U.S. Embassy reminds all U.S. Citizens to maintain situational awareness when in public and at home to avoid being a victim of crime. Please consider the following security tips: Females should avoid traveling in …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information about a student protest organized by the Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF) today at noon against the SITAM (Private Medical College). Over 500 students are expected to assemble in front of Fort Railway Station, and then march to the University Grants Commission (UGC) at Ward Place via Union Place and Town …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy Sri Lanka informs U.S. citizens that Sri Lanka celebrates International Workers’ Day on May 1, 2017. Organized rallies and demonstrations are planned in Colombo and other areas throughout Sri Lanka. The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka urges U. S. citizens travelling to exercise caution and avoid demonstrations and large gatherings. Please also anticipate …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information about a student protest today at approximately 1:30 pm. Approximately 400-500 students are expected to assemble at Horton Place and march to the Presidential Secretariat. Police have assembled in the area near Horton Place. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information about an ongoing protest in front of the Indian High Commission, next to the American Center. Protesters are currently marching toward the Galle Face area. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy received information that there will be a demonstration today at approximately 03:30 pm. Approximately 200-300 protesters are expected to assemble at Fort Railway Station and proceed to Temple Trees. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any …
Read More»The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued Travel Guidance for Maldives regarding the risk of Zika virus infection. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their medical provider and consider postponing nonessential travel to Maldives. Men whose partners are pregnant or are considering pregnancy should talk …
Read More»There is a student protest march on Galle Road in Colombo 3 (Kollupitiya). Several groups coming from different directions are meeting in an unknown location near Galle Road. The Police have closed Kollupitiya Junction and part of Galle Road. The embassy recommends avoiding areas near any protest/parade.
Read More»The US Embassy has received information of a special traffic plan that will be implemented for the Perahara parade, beginning at 5 PM today. The parade will begin at the Gangaramaya temple, and travel along Sir James Pieris Mawatha, Sri Jinaratana Road, Utharananda Mawatha, and return to the temple through Navam Mawatha. It is expected …
Read More»This weekend the Colombo area will be faced with multiple road closures and delays due to the Independence Day parade and related activities. The following areas will be affected: The section of Galle Road extending from the Galle Face Roundabout to Old Parliament Roundabout will be closed to the public between 5 a.m. and 12 …
Read More»About 200-300 protesters are marching towards Temple Trees from Slave Island passing through James Peiris Mawatha and Gangaramaya. Police have blocked off several potential routes, including Galle Road south of the US Embassy. Traffic in the area is extremely heavy. As always, the Embassy recommends avoiding the areas near any protest/parade.
Read More»The US Embassy has received information of a planned protest to take place in front of the US Embassy around noon today. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; avoid any gathering crowds that might be forming; monitor …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information that a protest march organized by the Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF) has begun in the vicinity of Town Hall. It is believed that 1,500 students will march towards Galle Road and attempt to march north to the Presidential Secretariat. Police riot squads have been positioned along the march route, and …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy received information that there will be a demonstration organized at approximately 10:00 a.m. The protesters are expected to assemble at Nelumpokuna Stadium and will proceed to the Presidential Secretariat. The protest is expected to last until 3:00 p.m. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information that the Lotus Road Roundabout is temporarily closed due to a protest march. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be aware of surroundings at …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information that a demonstration is planned for outside the Embassy at noon. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be aware of surroundings at all times.
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information that Galle Road is currently closed north of the Galle Face roundabout due to a protest. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be aware …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding multiple demonstrations in Colombo throughout the day. Locations of demonstrations include Fort Railway Station, Galle Face, Horton Place and Thumulla Junction. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a demonstration underway at Olcott Mawatha. The west bound lane in front of the Fort railway station is closed. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a demonstration underway at Ceramic Junction Fort. Lotus Road is closed for traffic at this time. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be …
Read More»The U.S. Embassy has received information that there is a protest march underway at Viharamaha Devi Park, Colombo 7. Ward Place is partially blocked as a result. Current information is that route runs through Kannaggara Mawatha – Lipton Circus – Ward Place – University Grants Commission. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to …
Read More»The Embassy has received information about a protest of approximately 250 people at the Colombo Fort Railway Station moving towards Ceramic Junction. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please …
Read More»Don’t wait, return your voted ballot right away! Remember U.S. embassies and consulates are not polling places; same-day in-person voting is not available outside the United States. The majority of states require voted ballots to reach local election officials by the close of polls on Tuesday, November 8. U.S. citizens who want to participate in …
Read More»Security Message for U.S. Citizens Zika Virus The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued Travel Guidance for Maldives regarding the risk of Zika virus infection. Zika virus is endemic . The risk of Zika to travelers, especially pregnant women, in endemic countries is likely lower (but not zero) …
Read More»Be an Active Voter by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2016 U.S. elections and participating in Absentee Voting Week! In many states, the voter registration deadline for the November 2016 elections is October 10. For some voters this might mean their paper voter registration and absentee ballot request must reach their local …
Read More»July 26, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information of a planned protest march, scheduled to start at approximately 11:00 am at the Ayurveda Junction, Rajagiriya and then march to the Ministry of Finance on Lotus Road, Colombo 1. Please avoid the areas of the protest march and expect heavy police presence and traffic congestion. …
Read More»July 13, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information of a planned protest march starting between 10:30 am and 12:00 noon from the University of Colombo to the University Grants Commission, Colombo 7. About 1,500 individuals are expected to attend the protest march. Please avoid the areas of the protest march and expect heavy police …
Read More»June 27, 2016 July 4th Voting Message Celebrate democracy this 4th of July by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2016 U.S. elections! In order to vote in the November 2016 elections, all overseas U.S. citizens need to have completed a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) in 2016. Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received …
Read More»June 15, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding an ongoing protest in the Fort area. Police have deployed tear gas to disperse protesters and roads in the area are closed off. Please avoid the areas of demonstration and expect heavy police presence and traffic congestion. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended …
Read More»June 9, 2016 The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will host a webinar “Foreign Earned Income for U.S. Overseas Taxpayers” on June 29, 2016, 2:00-3:00 p.m. EDT. Posts should share this information with their local U.S. citizen communities and add the link to their web pages. To register and attend this webinar, use the Foreign Earned Income for U.S. Overseas Taxpayers or https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/445/15416 webinar …
Read More»June 8, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a planned march this morning from Independence Square to Kolpity Junction, then up to Galle Face Green passing the American Embassy and the American Center. Please avoid the areas of demonstrations and expect heavy police presence and traffic congestion. We remind U.S. citizens that even …
Read More»May 20, 2016 Ongoing flood warnings have been issued to some parts of Sri Lanka along with landslide warnings in the districts of Kurunegala, Monaragala, Badulla, Ratnapura, Kandy, Kegalle and Nuwara Eliya. U.S. citizens residing in or travelling around Sri Lanka should monitor local news and reports from the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Centre ( http://www.dmc.gov.lk/index_english.htm …
Read More»March 17, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a demonstration to be held at Hyde Park in Colombo 2 starting at 3:00 pm. Protesters are expected to start gathering at 2:00 p.m. at two locations, the first near Ananda Coomarswamy Mawatha, Colombo 7 and the second near Zahira College, Maradana. Please avoid the …
Read More»March 15, 2016 The Embassy has received information about two protests underway in Colombo. The Inter University Student Federation (IUSF) has organized a protest march from Kelaniya University and is headed towards the President Secretarial office. The United National Party (UNP) demonstration started at Victoria Park and is headed towards Hyde Park. Traffic congestion is …
Read More»February 16, 2016 The Embassy has received information of an ongoing protest which started at the Fort Railway Station, following which police attempted to disperse the protest with tear gas at the Lotus Roundabout. However, protesters may continue to march to the Prime Minister’s office on Flower Road, Colombo 7, or Temple Trees, Colombo 3. …
Read More»February 11, 2016 The Embassy has received reports of about 500 people currently gathering at the Sasakawa Building, Colombo 3, who are expected to march along Galle Road to the Presidential Secretariat on Galle Face. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the areas during the demonstration. We remind …
Read More»February 3, 2016 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest march this afternoon at 3:00 p.m., starting near Town Hall and moving to the Presidential Secretariat. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the protest march.We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to …
Read More»December 17, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of about 1000 people currently gathering at the Lipton Circus, near Town Hall. The group is expected to march to Temple Trees, Colombo 3 via Dharmapala Mawatha or to the Presidential Secretariat, Colombo 1 via Slave Island. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are …
Read More»December 9, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of an ongoing protest of about 100 persons gathering at the Public Library in Colombo 7. They are expected to march to the Ministry of Power and Energy on Flower Road (Sir Ernest De Silva Mawatha), Colombo 7, and hold a demonstration at that location. A second …
Read More»November 24, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of an ongoing protest gathering at Bambalapitiya, Colombo 4. The protesters are expected to march to the Indian High Commission on Galle Road, Colombo 3. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the areas during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens …
Read More»November 3, 2015 The Embassy has received reports that multiple demonstrations have been planned in various parts of Colombo for this afternoon. The exact time and venues of protests are unknown. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Expect heavy police presence and severe congestion in areas around …
Read More»October 28, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest at about 11:00 a.m. today outside the U.S. Embassy, Colombo 3. Expect a heavy police presence and intermittent road closures around the U.S. Embassy. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended …
Read More»October 27, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest at about 11:00 a.m. today opposite the United Nations compound on Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid these areas during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution …
Read More»October 21, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of two planned protests consisting of about 500 students starting at about 12:30 p.m. today. The first will involve a gathering near the Aesthetic University on Albert Crescent Colombo 7 and the other at the Aesthetic University building on Horton Place, Colombo 7. Both protests are expected …
Read More»October 16, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest at the U.S. Embassy that may take place at 10am today. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity …
Read More»October 14, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of an ongoing protest involving approximately 200 individuals at the Ceramic Junction on Lotus Road, Colombo 1 (near Galle Face). There is a heavy police presence and traffic congestion in these areas. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid these areas. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations …
Read More»September 15, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of two planned protests for today afternoon – one near the Aesthetic University on Albert Crescent, Colombo 7 and the other near Temple Trees, Kollupitiya, Colombo 3. Expect a heavy police presence and traffic congestion in these areas. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid these areas. We …
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