The Department of Wildlife and Forest Conservation has announced the temporary closure of Blocks 01 and 02 of Yala National Park to tourists from today(14), citing the impact of prevailing dry weather conditions.
According to the Department, the measure will remain in effect until October 15, with officials stating that the decision was taken to safeguard wildlife struggling with acute shortages of food and water.
Yala, home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds, 47 species of reptiles, and 21 species of fish, has been severely affected by El Niño‑driven heat this season.
Several water sources inside the park have dried up, while trees and grasslands have withered, leaving animals facing both thirst and food scarcity.
Wildlife officers are undertaking intensive measures to ease the crisis, including releasing water drawn from the Menik River via solar‑powered pumps into park ponds through underground pipelines.
In addition, around 200,000 liters of water are being transported daily by bowsers to replenish natural and artificial ponds.
Authorities state that the closure is intended to minimize disturbances to animals during this critical period. (Newswire)