Sri Lanka is fast-tracking a digital ticketing initiative for national parks to handle rising visitor numbers while addressing concerns about environmental impact from heavy safari traffic.

Sri Lanka is accelerating the rollout of digital ticketing systems across its national parks as part of a broader effort to manage tourism growth and protect wildlife habitats. The initiative, directed by Deputy Minister of Environment Anton Jayakody, aims to streamline visitor access while supporting conservation goals. The move comes as popular destinations including Minneriya and Kaudulla parks experience significant visitor increases, with between 400 and 600 safari jeeps entering daily.

Environmental authorities have raised concerns about the cumulative effects of such vehicle traffic on wildlife habitats and surrounding ecosystems. In response, Deputy Minister Jayakody has instructed park officials to launch a comprehensive wildlife conservation and tourism management program supported by scientific study from expert teams to assess current conditions and impacts.

To address congestion, officials are exploring multiple solutions. These include establishing a new entrance near the Sigiriya-Pekkulam area to better regulate traffic flow within Minneriya National Park. Authorities are also considering directing vehicles entering after 2 p.m. through the Batu Oya exit route to reduce bottlenecks. A unified ticketing system connecting both Minneriya and Kaudulla parks will enable visitors to obtain permits from a single location.

The digital platform will also expand to Hurulu Eco Park, offering improved accessibility through systems positioned closer to urban centers. Officials anticipate these technological and infrastructure improvements will enhance visitor convenience while providing better oversight of park usage patterns.