In order to maintain a high profile in the tourism industry, all the groups that provide tourism facilities in the southern province will be registered with the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau, and they will be provided with training workshops and necessary facilities to empower them, says Channa Saliya Mendis, Chairman of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau.
According to the chairman of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau, arrangements have been made to give an official uniform and an official ID card to the tourist guides, three-wheeler drivers in the tourist areas, drivers who transport local and foreign tourists, Yala Safari jeep drivers, and people who provide tourism services along the rivers and lagoons.
He also said that 650 safari guides have already received the necessary training in Yala Park.
Mr Channa Saliya Mendis says that there are about 350 boats providing services to tourists along the Madu Ganga, but only 99 boat owners are registered with the local authorities.
The chairman said that in the future, all boat owners will be registered with the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau and given a license and an official uniform after receiving the necessary training.