Sigiriya will be declared as the first eco-friendly tourist destination in the country free of plastic and polythene in this year. The Ministry of Tourism and Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), Central Cultural Fund (CCF) and the Department of Wildlife Conservation are working together in this regard.

Minister, Prasanna Ranatunga who made a visit to the Sigiriya Tourist Zone yesterday (16); further stated that the government is also taking steps to expand the facilities required for local and foreign tourists visiting Sigiriya. There are plans to expand drinking water, sanitation and parking facilities, so as not to harm the Sigiriya eco-system. The Minister also stated that discussions are underway with various parties to obtain the relevant funds.

The Minister further stated that the government has taken necessary steps to operate domestic flights around Sigiriya for the convenience of local and foreign tourists and already they are under discussion. Moreover, Minister indicated that steps are already being taken to address the problems faced by tourists in Sigiriya tourism zone.