Vast improvements to Wilpattu National Park under Deyata Kirula

Nimal WIJESINGHE

The Wilpattu National Park Development Programme, a key venture under the Deyata Kirula 2012 overall development plan is being accelerated on the instructions of Wildlife Conservation Minister S M Chandrasena.

North Western Wildlife Zonal Assistant Director W.S. Weragama told the Daily News that the construction of the 95 kilometre long protective electrified fence around a major section of the sanctuary would begin today under the Deyata Kirula Programme at a cost of Rs 40 million.

The fence will run via Mahawilachchiya, Kukulkatuwa, Oyamaduwa, Hunuwilagama, Kalaoya, Thantirimale, Malwathuoya etc preventing heards of wild jumbos migrating to the nearby habitations in the future, according to Weragama.

Referring to the main infrastructural development programme being implemented under the Deyata Kirula in Wilpattu the Assistant Director said, that it has been planned to construct a internal road network of 100 kilometres covering the area close to the new proposed two new entrances to the park at Wilachchiya and Thantirimale areas.

"In addition to the present four circuit bungalows eleven new bungalows are being constructed close to the Wilpattu boundaries in Modaragam Aru, Kalaoya and along the costal zone. A sum of Rs 400 million has been allocated for the projects," Weragama disclosed.

Also being assisted by the Archaeological authorities and guided by Ven Ellawala Medhananda Nayake Thera the renowned archaeologist a comprehensive plan is being implemented to protect all sites of archaeological and historical importance scattered in the sanctuary he said.