A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed on the tourism management project in the area around the Nine-Arch Bridge and the Demodara Railway Station in Ella.
The MOU was signed between the Ministry of Transport and Highways, the Urban Development Authority, and the Central Cultural Fund under the patronage of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena at the PM’s Office on Monday.
According to the PM’s Office, under the agreement, an ambulance service is to be commenced adjoining a national heritage site for the first time in Sri Lanka.
As the second step of this project, it has been proposed to start a tourism management project in connection with the Demodara Railway Station.
Addressing the occasion, the PM expressed his appreciation for developing tourism hubs through such projects and working to increase tourist attraction.
Pointing out that the Nine-Arch Bridge in Ella was an engineering marvel in that era, the Prime Minister emphasized that while carrying out these projects, the existence and stability of the natural environment should be protected and the heritage of the future generations should also be taken into consideration.
Also addressing the event, Minister of Transport Bandula Gunawardena said the Ella Odyssey, Dunhinda Odyssey and Calypso trains are important steps in promoting tourism.
He further stated that the proposal to modernize and develop the railway service, which is very important in connection with these projects, has already been submitted to the President. (Newswire)