Saturday Nov 23, 2024
Saturday Nov 23, 2024
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President Ranil Wickremesinghe this week unveiled ambitious plans to transform Galle into a premier tourist destination, stressing the need to utilise State properties for tourism development and relocation of Government institutions.
Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘Serene River Park’ in Holuwagoda, Galle, he highlighted the significance of Galle as a tourism hub in the Southern Province and outlined key measures to enhance its development.
“Our focus must remain on tourism development, particularly in the Southern Province, which holds a special significance. We are committed to relocating Government offices from Galle Fort to facilitate tourism promotion,” he said.
Among the proposed initiatives, Wickremesinghe announced the relocation of Government offices from the Galle Fort to facilitate the establishment of hotels and restaurants in historical buildings. Additionally, he suggested utilising over 10 acres of land from the Mahamodara Hospital for developing tourist infrastructure, with plans to relocate the prison as well.
Wickremesinghe emphasised the economic opportunities that tourism development in Galle could bring to residents, urging them to capitalise on the growing tourist influx by renting out their properties to foreigners.
“We are actively engaged in strategic city planning efforts to elevate Galle into a premier tourist destination. Through these endeavours, Galle is poised to emerge as the primary tourist hub of our country,” he added.
He also highlighted that the tourism sector holds significant potential for generating foreign exchange for the economy. “It is imperative that we focus not only on increasing tourist numbers but also on attracting high-spending visitors. Instead of charging $ 50 for accommodation, we should consider raising the price to $ 200,” he said.
The ‘Serene River Park’, inaugurated during the event, is a significant milestone in Galle’s tourism development efforts. Constructed on a 14-acre site the park features a lake, walking paths, a children’s park, market stalls and ecosystems powered by solar lighting. The project, costing around Rs. 440 million, aims to provide a vibrant recreational space for both locals and tourists.
Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana initiated the project, with plans crafted by the Urban Development Authority (UDA) and construction executed by the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation and Development Corporation.
The President also announced plans to launch a program promoting local agricultural products to visitors and establish a boat service from the park to neighbouring areas, focusing on tourism promotion.
In addition to its recreational and tourism benefits, the ‘Serene River Park’ also serves as a flood control measure, addressing long-standing flood issues faced by residents in Holuwagoda and Opatha areas.
During the ceremony, Wickremesinghe expressed gratitude to individuals who contributed to the successful construction of the environmental park, underscoring the Government’s commitment to sustainable tourism development in Galle.
