Setbacks in Sri Lanka Tourism with street lighting and security issues...

This is a developing story brought to you by Aus News Lanka, your trusted source for news for Sri Lankans in Australia and beyond.

Sri Lanka’s world-famous tourist spots are starting to lose their shine, not because of the beaches or heritage sites, but because of something far more basic – electricity. Frequent power cuts and broken streetlights are leaving major tourist areas in the dark at night, making roads unsafe and discouraging visitors from stepping out after sunset.

Take Bentota-Moragolla, for example. It’s one of the country’s most popular coastal destinations, drawing thousands of visitors every year. But lately, entire stretches of road that connect hotels, restaurants, and entertainment spots have been left without lighting. For tourists unfamiliar with the area, wandering down a pitch-dark street feels unsafe – both in terms of accidents and personal security. The result? Many are choosing to stay indoors at night, and that’s hitting local businesses hard. Restaurants, cafés, and shops that rely on evening crowds are seeing fewer customers, which is a big blow for communities that depend on tourism.

And it’s not just Bentota-Moragolla. Similar stories are coming in from other tourist hotspots across the island. The bigger picture here is that while Sri Lanka is pouring money into promoting its destinations abroad, on-the-ground issues like unreliable power and poor infrastructure are sending the opposite message to visitors once they arrive.

This is a problem the country can’t afford to ignore. Tourism is one of Sri Lanka’s most important industries, and with the nation depending on it for foreign exchange and jobs, even small lapses can create a ripple effect. A burnt-out streetlight might seem like a minor issue, but when multiplied across a region, it impacts visitor confidence, business earnings, and ultimately, the country’s reputation.

Travelers today compare not just beaches and cultural sites, but also the overall experience. Competing destinations in Asia are offering seamless, safe, and convenient stays – so Sri Lanka can’t afford to fall behind. Safety and comfort matter just as much as natural beauty.

Locals are also feeling the effects. Since communities share the same roads and infrastructure, residents too face dark and unsafe conditions. But while they may be used to adjusting, tourists see it as neglect – and those negative impressions often end up in reviews and blogs that influence other travelers’ choices.

The solution? Experts say Sri Lanka needs a coordinated approach. Reliable electricity, well-lit tourist zones, and accountability from local authorities are essentials, not extras. Quick fixes like solar-powered streetlights or partnerships between local businesses and government could make an immediate difference while bigger upgrades are planned.

At the end of the day, flashy tourism ads only work if the reality on the ground matches the promise. Sri Lanka still has everything it takes to be a top global destination – the natural beauty, culture, and hospitality are all there. But unless visitors feel safe and confident, those strengths won’t reach their full potential.

In short, a safe and well-lit street isn’t just about convenience – it’s the backbone of a thriving tourism industry.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.