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Inland waterways to promote tourism in Central Region

Sigiriya group correspondent

Sri Lanka's waters will be used to promote tourism and made a "resort" for tourists, said Central Region Development Minister Tissa Attanayake.

Speaking at a meeting at the Ministry, he said aquatic sports in the inland waterways will be an artery of tourism.

Attanayake said tourism has seen a major change today.

Some tourists are interested in eco-tourism while some travel mainly to escape extreme climate of their country.

"There are psychological, religious and economic reasons too. We have to look or study every angel of tourism and make arrangements to cater to tourists' needs," the minister said.

"The central region development zone is an artery of economic growth. Water, mainly aimed at agriculture, has to be used for other purposes if other opportunities could be found. The earliest of the industrial regions developed in close proximity to harbours or water courses," Attanayake said.

"We hope to make our lakes, estuaries, reservoirs, wewas, rivers and irrigational canals a resort for tourists. Mapping out internal water spots and identifying types of activities suitable for such locations have drawn our concern. Swimming, scuba diving, windsurfing and fishing as a leisure activity will be introduced," the Minister said.

Attanayake said discussions have been held with the Mahaweli Authority, Sri Lanka Tourist Board, Sri Lanka Environment Authority, Eco-friendly associations, hoteliers and travel agent.

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