Social media users are in uproar after it was revealed that part of the iconic and most photographed tourist attraction in Mirissa, Galle known as Coconut Tree Hill has been sold. Photographs showed that part of the hill which in fact belongs to a private coconut estate has been sectioned off and a concrete fence has been put up.
Till recently tourists were allowed to visit the site free of charge and was one of the most sought after locations for travellers. According to sources the owners of the estate have now sold part of it to another party requiring a part to be sectioned off.
Social media users have expressed their dismay at the decision. Many appeared to call for much stricter laws to be brought for private land which can also be considered part of National heritage. Cultural heritage or tourist attraction to ensure their landscape is not altered by its owners. The majority called on the government to ensure the site is left unharmed so it can continue to be a tourist attraction in the area.
However some members of public others opined that the land owners were free to sell their land and therefore the decision should be accepted.
The Coconut Tree Hill is a private and popular coconut estate set on a high cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. The location had made its way to almost every traveller’s Instagram profile when they visited Mirissa.
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