The Government has launched a programme to transform Arugam Bay into a worldwide destination for windsurfing.

“The Government will not only have promotional campaigns worldwide for Arugam Bay as a tourism and windsurfing destination but also have training sessions for the sport and international competitions as well,” Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said.

The attention of the Government has also been drawn to not only promote the Arugam Bay area to a tourism destination, but to also enhance the livelihoods of those who have been involved in the tourist trade as well, the Minister said.

He also said that there was an allocation of Rs. 300 Million for the development of the Eastern Province, of which a majority of the funds will be apportioned for the development of Arugam Bay.

A Committee of officials has been appointed to oversee the development of the area after the gazette notification is issued. The Committee comprises officials of the Transport Ministry, Tourism Development Authority, National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Wild Life and Wild Life Resources Department, Urban Development Authority, Coast Conservation Department and the Ceylon Electricity Board. The infrastructure development has also commenced and the areas to be developed have already been identified. Some of them include Kumana Bird Sanctuary, Muhudu Maha Viharaya, Pottuvil, Paanama and others.

The Minister expressed confidence that there will be an influx of tourists to Arugam Bay between June and October and efforts will be made to counter the adverse effects of Covid -19.

Source: Travel Voice