KITDZ will benefit people of Kalpitiya

by Lalin FERNANDOPULLE

Development and environment are often at loggerheads. The lease of land for hotels at the Kalpitiya Integrated Tourism Development Zone (KITDZ) has stirred a hornest's nest with fisherfolk vehemently opposing the move.

Fisherfolk in the area said that land is being grabbed by businessmen to build hotels resulting in loss of access to the sea, lagoons and anchorage points.

Kalpitiya Dutch Bay

National Convenor, National Fisheries Solidarity Movement (NAFSO), Herman Kumara said that businessmen are already engaged in grabbing land in the islands for hotels turning a blind eye to the environment.

"Callous disregard for the environment with the cutting of mangrove forests, disturbance to the natural flow of water and sea erosion will have adverse repercussions on the eco-system", he said.

The All Ceylon Fisherfolk Federation sources said that many people in Kalpitiya do not have access to basic facilities such as land, electricity, drinking water and houses and added that a project of this nature will be like falling from the frying pan in to the fire.

Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority sources said that a project of the magnitude of its KITDZ will benefit people in Kalpitiya and added that it will pave the way for a host of opportunities for employment and economic development.

"It is the policy of the government that the benefits of economic develoment should trickle down to the masses. People should be part and parcel of tourism development", the sources said.

He said that contracts have been signed for two island resorts and bids have been called for the others. An investment of US$ 12 million has been made for a resort on Vellai island and US$ 17 million has been invested to set up a resort in the Ippantivu island.

Sri Lanka Tourism expects around 5,000 rooms to be built under the Kalpitiya Integrated Tourism Development Zone.

Kalpitiya is an enchanting coastal area in the North Western province with a marine sanctuary and a diversity of habitats.

Sea turtles, fisheries, bar reef marine sanctuary, ornamental fish collection, lobster capturing, dolphins, whales, mangroves, historical monuments, birds and butterflies, pristine beaches, lagoons and natural forest woo visitors to the scenic location. Sri Lanka Tourism launched the Kalpitiya Dutch Bay Resort Development project in 2008. The proposed zone comprises 14 islands.

Sri Lanka Tourism is gearing to be a destination of 2.5 million tourists by 2015 with a facelift to properties and infrastructure facilities.