Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa has proposed introducing a low-cost ticketing system for tourist attractions to promote lesser-known destinations and reduce congestion at popular wildlife parks.

Addressing the Parliamentary Caucus on Climate Change, Opposition Leader Premadasa said an affordable ticketing system could encourage tourists to visit a wider range of destinations while helping ease heavy traffic and congestion at national park entrances.

He said the move could also support the development of tourism in areas that currently receive fewer visitors.

Premadasa also raised several concerns affecting Sri Lanka’s wildlife sector, including the shortage of veterinary surgeons and the need to strengthen the workforce of the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

He said the department should have 33 veterinary surgeons, but only 17 are currently serving, adding that the shortage has existed for decades.

According to Premadasa, wildlife veterinary surgeons play a vital role in managing human-wildlife conflicts and treating animals such as elephants and leopards, but lack adequate legal recognition and powers under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance.

He called for wildlife veterinary surgeons to be properly integrated into the department, while also providing them with career advancement and promotions.

Premadasa further proposed removing accumulated silt from reservoirs in national parks during the dry season to improve their capacity to retain water.

He said water levels in tanks within the Yala National Park have fallen sharply amid the prevailing dry conditions, with water being transported by bowsers to some smaller water sources.

Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa also stressed the need to provide better facilities and support for wildlife officers, noting that their duties extend around the clock due to human-wildlife conflicts occurring both inside and outside designated wildlife areas.