– Authorities have proposed introducing an Electric Vehicle (EV) shuttle service inside Horton Plains National Park to reduce vehicle emissions, carbon footprints and noise pollution.The proposal was made during a special field observation tour and progress review discussion held at Horton Plains on August 29 under the chairmanship of Deputy Minister of Environment Anton Jayakody.

Under the proposed system, dedicated parking facilities would be established near the park’s entrance gates, while visitors would be transported inside the park using electric shuttle vehicles.The initiative is aimed at reducing the environmental and wildlife disturbance caused by conventional vehicles and creating a quieter and more environmentally friendly visitor experience.Authorities expect the proposed system to help protect the park’s sensitive ecosystem while supporting sustainable tourism.

Horton Plains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains a unique and fragile ecosystem that is particularly vulnerable to human activity and environmental disturbances.

The proposal forms part of a wider programme to modernise infrastructure and establish a sustainable eco-tourism model at the national park.