On Monday (Jan 23), the Secretary to President, Saman Ekanayake gave instructions to relevant officials during a discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat regarding the government’s decision to appoint a committee to look into the issues pertaining to white water rafting in Kitulgala due to the Broadlands Hydropower Project and to make necessary recommendations on possible solutions.
- White water rafting in Kitulgala has drawn a large number of local and foreign tourists
- According to those who provide related services, the Broadlands Hydroelectric Project has had a significant impact on the operation of the Kitulgala water rafting industry
- As a result, their livelihoods have been greatly impacted and they have requested the authorities to help save this water sport
- The Director of Broadlands Hydropower Project has stated that steps have been taken to cooperate with the Kithulgala white water rafting service provider community in accordance with existing technical arrangements
- He also advised that the committee in question, which comprises officials from the Tourism Ministry and relevant institutions, should conduct a field investigation into the issues raised and submit a report within two weeks
The President’s Secretary highlighted the practical matters brought up by the community in needing to provide services and instructed staff to come up with solutions quickly. – PMD
