26 June 2023 04:10 pm Views - 3158
A decision has been taken to relocate beggars from the Galle Face Green in Colombo to the Social Services Rehabilitation Center in Ridiyagama in the Hambantota District, Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said.
The minister said reports have indicated that the increasing number of beggars at Galle Face Green has become a significant issue to those visiting the area, including local residents, tourists, the youths and families.
"The number of beggars has noticeably increased in the vicinity where local residents, tourists from abroad, young individuals and families with children gather for leisure and relaxation. It is estimated that approximately 150 beggars at Galle Face Green are inconveniencing the visitors throughout the week, making it a pressing social concern as highlighted in reports," he said.
Visitors have been provided with sanitary and other necessary facilities at the Galle Face Green. However, the Ministry has received complaints regarding public harassments caused by beggars at the Green.
Hence, as a proactive solution, it has been decided to relocate these beggars to the Social Services Rehabilitation Center in Ridiyagama, in the Hambantota District.
The Ministry has instructed both the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and the Police Department to oversee the implementation of this joint initiative.
Meanwhile, the Minister has issued directives to the SLPA and affiliated institutions to allocate funds for this project under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. These funds are intended to provide essential accommodation, food and other necessary facilities to beggars who are to be transferred to the Ridiyagama Center. (Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama)