Government has failed to realise the potential of kitesurfing
The Kudawa, Kandakuliya Lagoon in Kalpitiya has long been a favourite spot for kitesurfing enthusiasts the world over and its popularity in the area commenced way back in 2010
However both the sport and Kudawa Kandakuliya's reputation is now at risk as there has been no move by the authorities to demarcate areas or provide facilities for enthusiasts.
The conditions for kite- surfing at Kalpitiya are such, that enthusiasts are able to participate in the sport for nine months of the year.
Unfortunately government has yet to recognise the potential available for developing the area for kite-surfing or developing it as a tourist attraction.
Despite the presence of large numbers of foreign tourists, even basic requiremens are non existent in the area.
For example, there isn’t even a single public convenience along the entire length of the coast.
Official apathy has resulted in a number of unregulated smallscale mushroom enterprises springing up to cater to the needs of kitesurfers.
These mushroom agencies rent out equipment to surfers, as well as motorbikes to traverse in the area.
Dozens of beach huts have also sprung up along the wide stretch of coastline. The huts are completely unregulated and in some instances damage the environment according to residents.
Meanwhile, lagoon fishermen have had their livelihoods disrupted as unre gulated kitesurfing has encroached on their fishing grounds.
To survive, some have resorted to providing various services needed by tourists.
Acting Kalpitiya Divisional Secretary H.M.S.P. Herath said they developed initial plans to regulate kite surfing in the region in 2016. He acknowledged however, the plans had not been implemented. He emphasised the plans would be implemented in the near future.