New approach to keep Sigiriya wasps at bay

The Central Cultural Fund (CCF) is jointly working with three ministries to introduce a special work plan to ensure the safety of visitors to Sigiriya rock fortress from wasp attacks, CCF Working Director W.D. Ranaweera told the Sunday Observer on Friday.

He said discussions are on with the Ministries of Wildlife and Agrarian Services, National Heritage and Culture and Arts to work out an appropriate and practical plan to prevent visitors being victimised to wasp attacks.

He said incidents of wasp attacks have risen this year compared to past years.

Ranaweera said environmental factors and human activities have caused disturbance to wasps in the Sigiriya rock fortress. He said the strong winds similar to minor whirlwinds and the intense heat experienced with the drought conditions have caused disturbance to wasps.

He noted five severe incidents of wasp attacks have been reported during this year while cases were usually nominal in other years.

He noted wasps come to the Sigiriya rock fortress in April for nesting and leave around September each year. There are 18 wasp nests in the Sigiriya rock fortress.

He said the issue of wasps would be approached strategically without removing wasp nests or causing any harm to the historical value of the site.

Ranaweera said a suggestion is made to lay a permanent barrier preventing the wasps easily reaching the visitors' section.

However, numerous proposals are still being discussed, adding that the best solution would be finalised with the consent of all three ministries.

Ranaweera said the CCF has started to provide free safety jackets for visitors to ensure their safety. "The CCF has about 1,000 safety jackets at the moment. We strongly recommend visitors to wear the jacket as a precautionary move."