SLTDA sets up hoardings to protect wild animals

In an attempt to mitigate the number of accidents taking the lives of wild animals along Buttala-Sellakatharagama Road, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) took the initiative with the Department of Wildlife, Road Development Authority, Sri Lanka Police and District and Divisional Secretaries to construct hoardings with messages to passengers to slow down the vehicles and be vigilant while driving as animals cross this road quite regularly. The four hoardings are now visible for the New Year between Gonaganaru and Sellakataragama.

Earlier, it was a pregnant leopard followed by a bear and elephant that became victims but many other animals includ- ing reptiles may have been killed without being noticed.

Construction of hoarding is the first step and this would be followed by distribution of leaflets at both ends and educational barriers, which would serve the purpose, according to Vipula Wanigasekera, Director General of the Tourism Development Authority.

Sri Lanka is a country known to be placed high on hospitality, not only for humans but also for animals. The world’s first wildlife sanctuary was established in Sri Lanka with the arrival of Arahat Mahinda Thers.

“These actions reflect the true feelings of Sri Lankans towards all beings, which we need to convey to the outside world,” said the tourism official.

Tourist Board Director General Vipula Wanigasekera with DS Monaragala S. Alagiyawattege, Sirira De Silva of Wildlife Department, K. Chandrasiri of Yala National Park, OIC Tourist Police N. Edirisinge, Champa Waidyathilake of SLTDA and other officials...