Tourism industry stakeholders disassociate from Deep Jungle Festival

By Shabiya Ali Ahlam
Several industry stakeholders yesterday disassociated themselves from the ‘Deep Jungle Festival’, as the event came under harsh criticism for being insensitive towards the wildlife.

The outdoor event, which is scheduled to be held from February 17 to 20 within the vicinity of the Hurulu Eco Park, Habarana, was initially endorsed by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau. However, as criticism mounts, the agency said it would withdraw the endorsement “unless necessary environmental clearance is obtained”.

The decision to withdraw support has been communicated to the organisers of the Deep Jungle Festival. The Sri Lanka Association for Inbound Tour Operators and The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka also put forward a joint statement yesterday, stressing that they were neither involved with the event nor were they consulted during the planning stages.

“We have not endorsed it. The associations are of the opinion that there is no benefit whatsoever to tourism from such an event,” the joint statement said. 

Meanwhile, the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society, Centre for Environment Justice and Habarana Tourist Hotel Association have urged the event planners to have the event at another location, so that the sanctity of the natural environment and animals could be kept intact.

The official website and social media handles of Deep Jungle Festival still promote the event.