Sri Lanka should take steps to properly identify, protect and promote historic shipwrecks off its coast as a major tourism attraction, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe said.
Speaking at a recent event, Ranasinghe said several significant shipwrecks, including what is believed to be the world’s first aircraft carrier, are located in Sri Lankan waters.
“These are now in our seas. We have the world’s first aircraft carrier resting off our coast,” he said, adding that such sites could become unique attractions if managed properly.
He noted that exploring the wrecks requires advanced diving technology and technical expertise, describing it as a highly specialised field.
Ranasinghe also raised concerns about the protection of underwater heritage, claiming that some wrecks may have been damaged or illegally salvaged in the past. He said while such sites fall under archaeological jurisdiction by law, better coordination and active management are needed.
“We must mobilise and use these resources, but they must be protected. That is our responsibility,” he said.
The Deputy Minister stressed that promoting underwater heritage sites responsibly could generate significant tourism revenue if properly marketed internationally.
“If promoted well as a global attraction, it could bring major income to the country,” he said. (Newswire)
