Sri Lanka: Overnight curfew imposed in several areas of Colombo following protests March 31 /update 3

Event

Authorities have imposed an overnight curfew in several parts of Colombo following violent demonstrations March 31. Areas subject to the curfew until further notice include Colombo North, Colombo South, Colombo Central, Nugegoda, Mount Lavinia, and Kelaniya. Authorities did not immediately specify the exact hours during which the curfew will be in effect. Officials have urged the public to stay at home while the curfew is in force.

Thousands of people protested near President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's residence in Mirihana, on the outskirts of Colombo, March 31 to denounce rising costs of living, fuel shortages, and electricity cuts amid the country's worst economic crisis in years. The protests also spread throughout Colombo, with demonstrators setting fire to police vehicles and blocking several thoroughfares, including the main highway linking Colombo to Sri Lanka's second-biggest city of Kandy. For their part, security forces fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse the protesters.

Protests denouncing Sri Lanka’s deteriorating economic situation are likely to continue nationwide through at least late April, and additional demonstrations are scheduled over the coming days; the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) plans to hold rallies nationwide April 7. Opposition parties are almost certain to organize further rallies. Protests are likely at government buildings, public squares, and on major roads.

Officials have enhanced security nationwide, especially at gas stations; officials will likely maintain heightened security measures for the duration of the protest activity and may tighten security near possible protest locations, including government buildings and public squares. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely in areas subject to protest activity and heightened security measures. Clashes between protesters and police are possible, especially if police attempt to forcibly disperse demonstrators.

Context

Political parties and residents have held protests in Sri Lanka in recent weeks to denounce the government's response to the economic crisis, ongoing power outages, and inflation. The largest protests have occurred in Colombo; popular protest locations include the Fort area, the Nelum Pokuna Theater, and major roadways.

The economic situation in Sri Lanka has been deteriorating in recent weeks, notably due to rising debt and decreasing foreign exchange reserves. Conditions in the country have worsened, with the crisis leading to gas shortages, rising inflation, transport disruptions, and water supply shortages. Residents and political groups will likely continue to hold protests denouncing the situation over the short term and call for the government to step down.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time near gatherings. Plan for likely queues at gas stations. Confirm all ground transport services before travel. Confirm business appointments in advance. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, including curfew orders.