Yala National Park’s Blocks 1 and 2 have been temporarily closed to tourists from today (14) due to the prevailing dry weather conditions, the Department of Wildlife Conservation and Forest Conservation said.
The closure will remain in effect for one month, until October 15.
Yala National Park is home to 44 mammal species, 215 bird species, 47 reptile species and 21 fish species.
The park’s peak tourist season generally runs from August to March. However, this year’s tourist season has been significantly affected by the prevailing El Niño conditions.
The severe dry weather has caused several water sources within the park to dry up, creating a serious shortage of drinking water for wildlife. Vegetation and grasslands have also dried up, resulting in a shortage of food for animals.
Wildlife officers are taking measures to provide water to animals affected by the drought. Water obtained using solar-powered pumps at four locations along the Menik Ganga is being transported through underground pipelines to ponds within the park.
In addition, wildlife officials transport around 200,000 litres of water daily by water bowsers to fill both artificial and natural ponds in the park.
Authorities said the temporary closure of Blocks 1 and 2 is aimed at reducing disturbances to wildlife as animals search for food and water amid the prevailing dry conditions.
