The Government is considering the introduction of cable car facilities at key tourist destinations, including Sri Pada, as part of efforts to strengthen tourism infrastructure, officials said following a Tourism Task Force meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat on 28 April.

The meeting, chaired by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath, reviewed proposals to launch cable car projects at Sri Pada, with additional locations such as Kikiliyamana and Ella also identified for potential development. Officials said attention was directed toward feasibility studies, securing preliminary approvals, and assessing technical reports required for implementation.

The discussion also covered the planned introduction of visa-free entry for citizens of 40 countries from 25 May, a measure expected to support tourist arrivals.

Progress on improving visitor facilities at national parks was reviewed, including sanitation upgrades at 19 locations managed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, among them Yala. Officials noted that a programme is underway, with maintenance of facilities such as toilets entrusted to a private entity, alongside plans to install new systems.

Separately, the Task Force discussed establishing a dedicated tourist zone along the coastal stretch from Kollupitiya, aimed at improving visitor safety and enhancing the area’s appeal. The project is expected to attract between 2,000 and 3,000 tourists.