Three-day alcohol ban for Central

Acting Central Province administrator Bala Kapa says there will be liquor ban throughout the independence period (Image: Supplied)

A three-day total restriction on the sale, purchase, and public consumption of alcohol will be enforced across Central during the 51st Independence Day anniversary celebrations this month.

The liquor ban will take effect on Tuesday, Sept 15, and run through to Thursday, Sept 17. Independence Day falls on Wednesday, Sept 16.

Acting Provincial Administrator and Chief Liquor Commissioner Bala Kapa authorized the restriction to ensure public safety, preserve order, and protect the dignity of the national event.

"This measure has been implemented to ensure public safety, maintain order, and uphold the dignity of our celebrations," Kapa said in an official notice.

He urged residents across the province to celebrate and participate in the scheduled festivities responsibly.

Police units will conduct regular patrols across all districts, while inspectors from the Central Provincial Liquor Licensing Authority will maintain strict surveillance to monitor compliance.

Major commercial hospitality operations have been exempted from the order. Establishments permitted to continue normal operations include; hotels, motels, lodges, taverns, publican bars and Resorts.

All non-exempt businesses, including bottle shops and trade stores, must remain closed to alcohol sales for the duration of the period.