Sri Lanka tourism operators urge ban on tourists to the country

Sri Lankan tour operators have requested tourism authorities to restrict all foreign tourists arriving in the country in the wake of protests against them by locals and closure of a number of tourist sites.

The Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) has come face to face with resistance from Sri Lankans against tourists touring the island and inability to conduct tours due to closure of tourist sites like the Pinnawela Elephant orphanage among other places including wildlife parks.

“SLAITO as a socially responsible organization, has taken into consideration the increase in protests around the island by locals against foreign nationals, the closure of wildlife parks, Pinnawala and other touristic sites and have decided that the relevant government authorities should consider restricting all foreign tourists from entering Sri Lanka from March 16 – 31,” a statement issued by its President Mahen Kariyawasam to members stated.

The association has also requested authorities to extend the period of the moratorium granted on their loans for a further one year that was previously granted following the Easter attacks last year; in addition to a further capital infusion. (SD)