10/09/2024
Thank you for all your suggestions🙏💡
We got so many replies to our previous post where we asked about suggestions to improve Hikkaduwa (both here, on Whatsapp, on the Hikka24 facebook group).
This is what people commented:
- A bypass rd that let's galle beach rd be a safe walking road for tourist/ locals.
- Trash bins set up along the side streets so people have some place to properly store their trash on pickup day without the dogs breaking into the bags
- It would be so great if during low season places weren’t just left to rot and fall down into the sea. If they’re going to be replaced in the new year anyway, then removing these structures when places close makes sense. It looks so sad and it’s unfair on the other places which try so hard to keep their area clean and customers happy.
-That it wasn't so far from Australia. 😅
- With all the new, large hotels being built on the beach front, public beach access is becoming limited. Sometimes there is no access for a kilometer or more! Town planning should insist on public pathways to the beach being obligatory with new builds. This applies to much of the Galle Road not just Hikkaduwa.
- Enforce a 40 kmph speed limit!
- Or 30 kmph
-The reconstruction of the reef is amazing so hopefully that continues.
- Properly trained lifeguards would be great. More of them & safe zone flags so people know where it’s safe to swim.
- A barrier at each train crossing. Something to warn you that a train might just come along now!
-Beach patrol units along the entire length of the beach all the way to Kumarakanda, or various for the different sections, to make it safer for women to walk along alone .
- A drone to fly over the seafront for safety.
- If I could do one thing, I’d close the Galle rd immediately !!!!!‘
The worst in Hikkaduwa 😱
- A bypass road
- I’d like to see a festival as well.
- A Main street with safe side walks 👍 (and slow traffic).
- Active protection of all the corals, fish and turtles in our waters 💙
- Buses not driving crazy and mindlessly on Galle road. And care for street animals.
- A playground and bicycle park for children 👧🏽🚲🛝
-Trash bins on main road and beach would be great too.
- More choice on the food front .
- Slow and safe traffic through main road.
Better aquamarine protection for turtles and corals.
- New route for buses (bypass)
- Chamara put a whole list of ideas for short term measures: 01.Beach Clean-Up Campaigns:
Organize community-driven beach clean-ups to regularly remove trash and debris. Partner with local businesses, hotels, schools, government organizations, and volunteers to ensure the coastline remains clean.
02. Waste Management Awareness Programs:
It's time to address waste management for households and businesses. Continuous education should focus on avoiding plastic burning and developing a collection system that rewards the community.
03. Aesthetically designed waste bins should be placed in public spaces, while shop owners are encouraged to reduce the use of single-use containers like cans and trays. Proper signage should promote responsible disposal.
04.Local Art Installations:
Commission local artists to create eco-friendly sculptures and murals that reflect the culture of the region, adding artistic charm to the coastal area.
05.Beachfront Landscaping:
Plant native greenery such as coconut trees, mangroves, and coastal grasses along pathways to enhance the beach's visual appeal and combat erosion.
06.Upgrading Tourist Facilities:
Upgrade and maintain public restrooms and seating areas using eco-friendly materials. Focus on special architectural improvements to enhance the appearance and facilities of:
-Train and bus stations
-Hikkaduwa Hospital (Arachchikanda)
-Post Office
-Public sports ground
- All canals
07.Promoting Eco-Friendly Activities:
Encourage eco-friendly water sports like snorkeling and surfing, with clear guidelines to protect marine life and coral reefs.
08.Eco-Tourism Packages:
Introduce eco-tourism packages that emphasize responsible travel and nature education.
And long term measures:
Long-term Measures:
01.Sustainable Coastal Zone Management:Develop a coastal management plan that addresses erosion, rising sea levels, and habitat preservation to protect the coastline.
02.Build eco-friendly infrastructure with sustainable materials and techniques to balance tourism and conservation.
03.Marine Conservation Initiatives:Collaborate with marine biologists to monitor and protect coral reefs and marine biodiversity.Create designated marine protected areas where fishing and other harmful activities are limited.
04.Reforestation and Mangrove Restoration:Initiate long-term reforestation programs to expand green areas and create mangrove nurseries to protect coastal ecosystems.
05.Sustainable Tourism Policies:Implement guidelines for hotels and resorts to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as solar energy use, water conservation, and plastic reduction.
06.Community Involvement and Education:Educate the local community on sustainable tourism and environmental protection.
07.Establish eco-committees within schools and businesses to foster a sense of ownership over the environment.
08.Eco-friendly Transport Infrastructure:Promote bicycle lanes, walking paths, and electric vehicle usage to reduce carbon footprints in the area.
09.Sustainable Fisheries Programs:Encourage sustainable fishing practices, such as community-based fishery management, to protect marine life while supporting local livelihoods.
By implementing these steps, Hikkaduwa can balance development with environmental conservation, enhancing its natural beauty and charm while attracting responsible tourism.
