Sri Lanka restricts tourist access to drought-stricken national park

Sri Lanka has implemented restrictions on tourist access to the central zones of one of its most visited national parks, citing severe drought conditions that threaten both water supplies and wildlife habitat. The decision reflects growing concerns among conservation officials about environmental stress in the protected area as dry weather persists across the island.

The closure of core zones is intended to reduce pressure on already scarce water resources and allow natural habitats to recover during the critical dry season. Park authorities have indicated that peripheral areas remain open to visitors, though access to prime wildlife viewing zones has been curtailed to minimise human impact during this vulnerable period.

The restriction comes amid forecasts of an approaching El Niño weather event, which typically brings drier conditions to South Asia. Conservation experts warn that the combination of current drought and the anticipated climatic pattern could further stress ecosystems and wildlife populations dependent on consistent water availability.

Sri Lanka's national parks serve as critical refuges for endangered species and generate significant tourism revenue. Officials have balanced conservation imperatives with economic considerations, seeking to protect the park's ecological integrity while maintaining some level of visitor activity in less sensitive areas.