Sri Lanka Unveils Strategic Interventions to Accelerate Tourism Development 📈

The Government, led by Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath and the Presidential Task Force, has finalized several key infrastructure and policy measures to streamline the tourism sector: • Digital & Visa Reforms: Plans are underway to introduce a digital entry pass for tourist attractions and expedite the processing of tourist visas to reduce arrival friction. • Transport & Connectivity: Expansion of domestic air services to improve inter-city travel. Launching dedicated bus services linking Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) directly to major tourist hubs. • Asset Utilization: A new initiative to repurpose circuit bungalows owned by the Mahaweli Authority and Irrigation Department to expand available state-owned accommodation. • Site Maintenance & Safety: Ongoing cleaning and beautification of the Beira Lake area. Strengthening the Tourist Police to resolve visitor grievances. Targeted interventions at whale-watching centers to improve service standards and safety. • Stakeholder Collaboration: The meeting included high-level representation from the National Budget Department and the private sector (John Keells Holdings), signaling a unified approach to infrastructure investment and employment growth.