– Authorities are planning to introduce daily visitor limits and an online advance booking system at Horton Plains National Park as part of measures to reduce environmental pressure on the sensitive ecosystem.The proposal was discussed during a special joint field observation tour and progress review meeting held on August 29 at Horton Plains, chaired by Deputy Minister of Environment Anton Jayakody.

Officials said an online time-slot booking system would allow authorities to regulate the number of visitors entering the park at any given time and improve visitor management.An adjusted pricing strategy is also being considered to reduce excessive visitor pressure while encouraging high-value, environmentally responsible tourism.Horton Plains is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique biodiversity and highly sensitive ecosystem.

The measures are part of a broader program aimed at developing a sustainable eco-tourism model while ensuring the long-term conservation of the national park.The meeting was attended by Ministry of Environment Secretary K. R. Uduwawala, senior officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation and Department of Forest Conservation, and field officers including the Horton Plains Park Warden.