Govt. to crack down on unauthorised tourism structures in ‘risky zones’ following cyclone

The government has announced a comprehensive review of tourism-related developments in environmentally sensitive areas, acknowledging that unauthorised structures in “risky zones” exacerbated the damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

Speaking at a special press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism last week, Deputy Minister of Tourism Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe revealed that the disaster had exposed significant regulatory gaps. 

This was particularly evident in the hill country, where improper developments on landslide-prone slopes had taken place without formal approval.

Authorities plan to launch a new initiative to clearly identify and list “tourism-approved” properties, ensuring that future visitors are guided towards safe, regulated establishments.

The Deputy Minister noted that while the tourism sector is vital for the economy, recent weather conditions have necessitated a rethink on how and where infrastructure should be built.

“We need to ensure that the most appropriate places for such projects are identified, declared, and developed,” he stated, adding that there will be a move to strictly enforce safety standards. He further indicated that the government may potentially remove settlements and commercial structures from areas deemed uninhabitable by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO).

This policy shift comes as the government faces the dual challenge of reviving the tourism economy while managing a massive national reconstruction effort for public and private property.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that the rapid restoration of the tourism sector is a strategic necessity, serving as the primary revenue engine to fund the rebuilding of damaged homes and schools.

“We need to ensure tourism functions - as it is one of our major pillars in the economy- to support those affected communities,” he explained, framing the industry’s recovery as the financial lifeline for the broader relief effort.

Industry leaders, including the Presidents of The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) and the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), expressed support for the government’s approach.

They confirmed that despite infrastructure challenges in specific localities, the formal sector remains resilient and ready to drive the economic recovery needed to rebuild the nation. (NF)