News
Worsening sea erosion on Kalpitiya beach could hit tourism
A scenic stretch of the Kalpitiya beach– about two km long and 70m wide- lined with cyprus trees, is being destroyed by sea erosion. 
According to Kalpitiya Tourist Development Society president Kirthi Nixon the erosion is affecting about 15 tourist resorts.
The worst affected is the Iththadiya beach.
He said already a 50 m beach stretch has been completely destroyed and submerged by sea water while this two km long stretch of the beach is under threat.
“The resorts along this stretch are popular among local and foreign tourists. It will be a death blow to the tourist industry in this area if urgent action is not taken,” Mr Nixon said.
Behind the shady woods of Cypres trees is the village of Iththadiya and its cemetery which also face imminent threat.
Mr Nixon said the Wild Conservation Department and the Coast Conservation Department have been informed about the worsening situation.
Kalpitiya Coast Conservation Department officer A.R.M . Haleem said necessary action will be taken in the near future.
Iththadiya cemetery may soon be affected
Kirthi Nixon points to the stretch affected by erosion
The area is a popular tourist destination