By S.K. Kaluarachchi
Saman Ekanayake, Secretry to the Persident, yesterday instructed a committee appointed to investigate problems caused by a hydropower project to white water rafting to make recommendations on possible solutions
Those involved in the sport around the Kitulgala area are facing issues due to the Broadlands hydropower project.
The President’s Secretary issued these instructions during the discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat with stakeholders.
Ekanayake also advised members of the committee, comprising officials from the Ministry of Tourism and other institutions to conduct a field investigation into the issues raised and submit a report within two weeks.
White water rafting in the Kitulgala area drew a large number of local and foreign tourists, the President’s Media Division said.
According to those who provide related services, the Broadlands hydropower project has had a significant impact on the operation of the Kithulgala water rafting industry.
As a result, their livelihoods have been greatly impacted, and they have requested the authorities to help save this sport, which has the potential for earning foreign exchange for the country.
The Director of Broadlands Hydropower Project, who participated in this discussion, stated that steps have been taken to cooperate with the Kitulgala white water rafting service provider community in accordance with existing technical arrangements.
However, the President’s Secretary drew attention to the practical issues raised by the community providing relevant services and directed officials to provide solutions as soon as possible.
Member of Parliament Rajika Wickramasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs
K. Mahesan, Secretary of the Irrigation Ministry U.D.C. Jayalal, and officials from the Ministry of
Tourism, Ceylon Electricity Board, Central Environment Authority, and other line institutions took part in the discussion.