Twenty passengers were injured this morning when a private bus travelling towards Colombo toppled into a canal near the 7th mile post area along the Polonnaruwa–Habarana Road, Police said.

According to the Police, the bus, carrying around 40 passengers, veered off the roadway after the driver reportedly lost control. The vehicle fell into a dry canal.

The Police said four injured passengers were admitted to Habarana Hospital, while 16 others were taken to Polonnaruwa Hospital. None of the victims are in serious condition.

Investigations into the cause of the accident are underway. (Newswire/ Image- Accident1st)

The post 20 injured as bus topples into canal in Minneriya appeared first on Newswire.

The Ministry of Environment has announced a series of measures to promote sustainable wildlife conservation and improve tourism management across Sri Lanka’s national parks, following an observation tour led by the Deputy Minister of Environment at Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Hurulu National Parks.

The initiative focuses on enhancing tourist attractions, upgrading infrastructure and sanitation facilities, introducing digital technology to streamline services, and expanding revenue streams for the Department of Wildlife Conservation. 

Officials noted that nearly 400–600 jeeps enter Minneriya and Kaudulla parks daily, creating environmental and wildlife impacts. 

To address this, experts will conduct a scientific carrying capacity study, while plans are underway to establish a new entrance to Minneriya Park via Sigiriya–Pekkulama to ease traffic congestion. Vehicles entering Minneriya after 2.00 pm will also be directed to exit via Bateuoya to reduce crowding.

Digitalization will play a central role in the reforms. A unified ticketing system will be introduced for Minneriya and Kaudulla, while a new online ticketing platform will be implemented for Hurulu Eco Park. 

Digital monitoring systems at park gates will be updated to track vehicle entry and exit in real time, enabling officials to manage congestion more effectively. In addition, plans were discussed to establish a high‑quality food and beverage facility for local and foreign tourists visiting Hurulu Eco Park.

Other measures include setting a minimum time requirement for tourists to remain inside Minneriya and Kaudulla parks, and modernizing park museums with attractive new features. To boost revenue, wildlife‑themed T‑shirts, souvenirs, and local products will be sold within park premises.

Officials emphasized that these measures will be implemented swiftly in coordination with state institutions, environmental experts, and park authorities. (Newswire)

The post Govt moves to strengthen wildlife conservation and tourism management appeared first on Newswire.