Vavuniya

Vavuniya (Tamil: வவுனியா, Sinhalese: වවුනියා) is a large town in the Northern Province, Sri Lanka, governed by an Urban Council. It is also the main town in the Vavuniya District. Vavuniya is often referred to as the gateway to Vanni.

Vavuniya was a front line town in the war between the LTTE and the Sri Lankan Army until the Army advanced northwards during the 2008 SLA Northern offensive. Clashes between different Tamil militant groups have resulted in instability in the town, and those from the south of Sri Lanka do not visit it often.

The Sri Lankan Army constantly patrols the area, and heavy security is apparent. This is due to the Security Forces Headquarters - Wanni being based in Vavuniya in close proximity to the Sri Lanka Air Force air base SLAF Vavuniya, which is also used for civilian flights. The town has a a railway station, which is located on the Northern Line.

The Family Tracing Unit (FTU) is based in Vavuniya.