April 12, Colombo (LNW): The Wildlife Conservation Department of Sri Lanka has announced that the national parks have generated a staggering income exceeding Rs. 2,000 million in the first three months of this year. This record-breaking revenue comes from the influx of both local and international tourists visiting these biodiversity hotspots.
During this period, over 200,000 foreign tourists explored the national parks, with Yala National Park attracting the highest attendance, recording over 100,000 visitors. Other popular destinations included Wasgamuwa, Kumana, Wilpattuwa, Bundala, Minneriya, Udawalawa, and Kaudulla. These parks are renowned for their rich wildlife and unique ecosystems, making them prime spots for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Chandana Suriyabandara, the Director General of the Wildlife Conservation Department, commented on the financial success, noting that the income for January through March set a new record for the department. He also expressed optimism about surpassing this year’s revenue figures compared to the previous year, attributing the positive trend to the growing popularity of wildlife tourism and effective park management strategies.
This financial achievement underscores the importance of sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in promoting wildlife protection while simultaneously boosting the local economy.
