The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism has allocated Rs. 131.20 million for tourism development initiatives in the Jaffna District for 2025. This funding was the main focus of a recent review meeting held at the Jaffna District Secretariat, chaired by Government Agent M. Piiratheepan.
The meeting assessed progress and planning for key projects intended to revitalise several of Jaffna’s significant tourist attractions. Among the priority sites were Casuarina Beach in Karainagar, various islands in the Kayts Division, and the culturally rich coastal zones of Tellippalai.
Casuarina Beach, one of the most popular coastal destinations in the Northern Province, is slated for major enhancements. It was agreed that on-site inspections in collaboration with relevant departments would guide the utilisation of the allocated funds, with the aim of transforming the beach into a fully-equipped, accessible, and tourist-friendly location.
Island tourism was also a central topic, with particular focus on the renovation of key boat piers. The Puliyanthivu pier in Analaitivu and the Kannaki Amman pier in Kayts will undergo improvements to boost transport connectivity to the islands. Additionally, the Kayts pier area will receive landscaping upgrades including tree planting and seating facilities, designed to improve the overall visitor experience.
In Tellippalai, attention was drawn to Keerimalai Beach, a site of cultural and religious significance to the Tamil community. Following a request by the Government Agent, Rs. 35 million was allocated for the removal of coastal rocks that obstruct traditional Hindu rituals for the deceased. This project will also include infrastructure improvements to ensure better access and visitor amenities.
The Kankesanthurai beach, which hosts a children’s park currently damaged by sea erosion, was also reviewed, with plans for immediate restoration being discussed.
GA Piiratheepan stressed the importance of completing all development work within the planned timeframe and urged all departments to implement sustainable maintenance strategies to ensure long-term success of the projects.
The meeting was also attended by Additional Government Agent (Land) K. Shrimohanan, Planning Director E. Surendranathan, Chief Engineer K. Thirukumar, Divisional Secretaries from Tellippalai, Karainagar, and Kayts, as well as local council secretaries and tourism officials.
