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Sri Lanka identifies 12 main beaches to implement “Blue Flag Beach” concept

Sectoral Oversight Committee on Environment, Natural Resources & Sustainable Development which met under the Chairmanship of Member of Parliament Ajith Mannapperuma recently (Feb. 20) took into discussion the concept of "Blue Flag Beach" which aims to prepare the nations coasts to attract tourists.Officials representing the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing, Ministry of Tourism and Lands, Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Government, Department of Coastal Conservation and Coastal Resource Management, Maritime Environment Protection Authority and Sri Lanka Ports Authority were present at this Committee meeting held.

Furthermore, the Opposition Leader, Sajith Premadasa was also in attendance at this Committee.

The Committee Chair pointed out that tourists are more attracted to beaches that have received the "Blue Flag Beach" quality certificate. It was stated that it is because these beaches are safer and higher in quality. However, the Chair also pointed out that the attention of all concerned parties should be paid to the lack of quality development of the beaches in Sri Lanka to obtain the "Blue Flag Beach" certificate.The Marine Environment Authority pointed out that currently 12 main beaches in Sri Lanka have been identified to implement the "Blue Flag Beach" concept. That the necessary steps are already being taken to bring 4 to a level of function.Moreover, Sajith Premadasa, the leader of the opposition, commenting on the said, inquired about the measures to be taken to prevent unauthorized construction along the coast.Committee members Jayantha Ketagoda and Nalaka Bandara Kottegoda were present at the Committee meeting held.

( Source : Ada Derana)