The Cabinet of Ministers approved using Galle Face Green for festivals, concerts, and other celebrations, reversing a prior restriction to religious events only.

The said restrictions were passed on 17 April 2023. 

Accordingly, the Cabinet approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Vijitha Herath to make the site’s management more organised via the “clean and green Galle Face Green” concept by allowing it to be used for more social activities.

Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath stated that the administration and maintenance of the Galle Face Green costs approximately Rs. 2.5 million to Rs. 3 million per month. 

Accordingly, in order to cover that cost and make it a more attractive and safe location for local and foreign tourists to roam freely, as it was before 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers decided that it is beneficial to provide the opportunity to be used for activities such as festivals, musicals and other celebration subject to suitable criteria.