More national parks in the offing

Rasika Somarathna and Dhanushka Godakumbura

Authorities are planning to set up several wildlife parks, forest and bird sanctuaries in the Northern part of the country.

Nayaru, Kokilai, Chundikulam and Madu Road have been identified as viable locations for such ventures, Economic Development Ministry Director General Dr. Chandrawansa Pathiraja said.

He said Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa had instructed to develop identified areas at the earliest possible time following a feasibility study to promote them as attractive eco-tourist destinations.

According to Dr. Pathiraja if the areas could be developed as viable eco-tourist attractions it would be an economic booster for the people living in the areas as well as the country.

He said people could take advantage from a number of direct and indirect employment opportunities arising from such ventures.

This would also help preserve nature’s gifts bestowed to the land, he added.

Dr. Pathiraja said the rich Bio-diversity and unique natural features which could be found in forests, marshes, lagoons etc. in these areas could provide rich material to develop intended wildlife sanctuaries.

According to him the authorities are also looking at the possibility of expanding the extent of the Wilpattu National Park by encompassing viable land areas which are presently unused in the northern sector.