Government is to establish a Crocodile park around the Muthurajawela area in the Gampaha district as a tourist attraction, as well as a solution to the growing infestation in the provinces, Director General (Parks)- Ministry of Economic Development, Dr Chandrawansa Pathiraja told the Sunday Times.
He said that, under the plan, crocodiles that pose a threat to villages would be captured and brought to the Muthurajawela park, which would be a secured area preventing the animals from escaping.
“The park would be similar to that of the elephant orphanages. We will be having a permanent place to relocate crocodiles, in the event they pose a threat to people”, he said.
He said that the Ministry plans to convert the park as a key tourist attraction, where tourists will spend even a day around the area or come on short visits to the area.
“The objective of this project is to also develop the Gampaha district as a tourist attraction. Tourists will be able to visit the park soon after their arrival in Sri Lanka”, he said.
He said that, under the plan, they also hope to develop the infrastructure around the area, including night camps to observe the crocodiles.
In addition, a research centre would also be established to carry out research on crocodiles. The project will be backed by environmental organisations.
Facilities for school children to visit the park would also be improved. “There may be concerns from villagers around the area. But we will ensure that the park is secured with nets to ensure that the crocodiles do not escape into the surrounding villages”, he added. |
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