News
Photo focus: Sigiriya under siege
Severe threat: There is a record number of 19 wasps’ nests visible just above the stairwell of the Lion’s Paws at the Sigiriya rock fortress
Visitors to Sigiriya are facing a severe threat to their safety as the rock fortress is now home to the largest number of Wasps’ nests in recorded history. A total of 19 wasps’ nests are now observed just above the stairwell of the Lion’s Paws, a sharp rise from the eight observed not too long ago. About four others have been constructed in nearby trees and above the “Mirror Wall.”
Despite the increase in wasp’s nests, security measures at the site remain woefully inadequate. The protective cages that have been constructed for visitors in the event of wasp attack are in a derelict state and offer no real protection. No protective suits are present either. The only visible sign of any preparedness is the presence of a First Aid station at the site.
Sigiriya also remains a place that staggeringly overcharges foreign tourists, with an adult visitor having to pay US$ 30 (Rs.4260) to enter while a child is charged US$ 15 (Rs.2130). This is in contrast to Rs. 50 for a local adult visitor and Rs. 25 for a child. Yet, foreign tourists continue to throng this majestic archeological wonder. Given the large number of foreign and local visitors who visit Sigiriya daily, even during the period of the current heat wave, one wonders how authorities can be so negligent about their safety. Where is all the money going?
Safety not guaranteed: The protective cages constructed to house visitors in the event of wasp attack are in a derelict state and offer no real protection (top and above)
Foreign throng: Large numbers of tourists continue to visit the archeological wonder, despite authorities being negligent about safety (left and above)
Overcharging?: Foreign tourists spend more than 80 times what a local pays to visit and climb the rock fortress, paying approximately Rs.4260 per adult