The Marine Environment Authority says 12 main beaches in Sri Lanka have been currently identified to implement the “Blue Flag Beach” concept.
The Authority said that the necessary steps are already being taken to bring 4 of the beaches to a level of function.
The information was conveyed when the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Environment, Natural Resources & Sustainable Development took up for discussion the concept of “Blue Flag Beach”.
According to a Parliament statement, the Sectoral Oversight Committee met under the Chairmanship of MP Ajith Mannapperuma recently (Feb 20) during which a discussion was held on the concept of “Blue Flag Beach” which aims to prepare the nation’s 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 the Committee meeting, while the Opposition Leader, MP Sajith Premadasa was also in attendance.
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.
Commenting on the matter, Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa also inquired about the measures to be taken to prevent unauthorized construction along the coast. (NewsWire)