The official Travel advice website of the Government of Canada recently amends the Safety, security, and economic situation in Sri Lanka. According to the Canadian classification, Sri Lanka falls into the: “Exercise a high degree of caution” risk level.
⚠️ Canadians in #SriLanka: The deteriorating economic situation is affecting the supply of basic necessities and the delivery of public services.
— Travel.gc.ca (@TravelGoC) January 13, 2022
•Keep supplies of food, water and fuel on hand
•Monitor local media for information https://t.co/btuL6iQfSs pic.twitter.com/NSRZ3T2yK0
This risk level means that there are identifiable safety and security concerns or the safety and security situation could change with little notice. You should exercise a high degree of caution at all times, monitor local media, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Economic situation
The economic situation is worsening in Sri Lanka. The economic crisis is leading to shortages of fundamental necessities including medicines, fuel, and food.
The economic instability may affect the delivery of public services, including healthcare. Limited access to resources could also contribute to a deterioration in the security environment.
Keep supplies of food, water, and fuel on hand in case of lengthy disruptions.
Long line-ups may be experienced at grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies.
Monitor local media for information related to food and fuel shortages.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Sri Lanka.
On April 21, 2019, several explosions occurred at different locations, including hotels and churches, in the greater Colombo area and Batticaloa. These attacks resulted in more than 250 deaths and 500 injuries.
Further attacks can’t be ruled out. Targets could include:
government buildings, including schools, places of worship, airports, and other transportation hubs and networks, public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets, hotels, and other sites frequented by foreigners.
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Intercommunal tensions have led to instances of civil unrest and acts of violence following the terrorist attacks of April 2019. Further incidents could occur.
Demonstrations occur regularly in Colombo, and occasionally elsewhere in the country. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Crimes
Violent crimes occur, including harassment and assault aimed at Western foreigners.
Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially on public transportation. Theft has occurred in hotels and guesthouses. Credit card fraud is common. Pay very close attention to your credit card when it is being handled. To minimize risks, you should opt to pay in cash whenever possible.
Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Spiked food and drinks
Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, often combined with sexual assault or theft. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
Women’s safety
Women are often the target of unwanted attention. They should exercise caution when travelling alone.
Road safety
Road conditions are usually poor outside major cities.
Road accidents, often causing death and injuries, are common due to poorly maintained vehicles, erratic driving practices, and pedestrians and roaming animals on the road.
Roads may be closed on short notice.
Public Transportation
Travel by bus is generally unsafe due to aggressive drivers and the risk of theft.
Direct Information from: https://travel.gc.ca/
