All national parks to re-open from June 15

• Treasury incurred colossal loss due to closure of these national parks

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

All zoological gardens, forest reserves, wildlife sanctuaries and botanical gardens across the country would be reopened for both local and foreign tourists from June 15, Wildlife Resources Minister S.M. Chandrasena said yesterday. 

 He said all national parks and zoological gardens had been closed since last March due to COVID-19.  
“The Treasury had to incur a colossal loss following the closure of these national parks, which generate an annual income of Rs. 7,000 million,” the minister said  

He said the parks would be operated adhering to the guidelines issued by the health and security authorities.