In a significant move aimed at catalyzing tourism investments along coastal regions nationwide, Urban Development and Housing Minister Prasanna Ranatunga has announced the acceleration of approval processes for investments within a one-kilometer stretch from the coast. The Urban Development Authority (UDA) is set to spearhead this initiative through its newly established One Stop Unit, dedicated to facilitating information dissemination regarding potential tourism investment areas.

The overarching goal is to invigorate tourism endeavors and foster growth within the sector. Minister Ranatunga assured that the approval process will be streamlined, with applications expected to receive clearance within a swift timeframe of 10 to 21 days post-submission. Notably, a consortium of sixteen key institutions, including the Ministry of Public Administration, Tourism Development Authority, Forest Conservation Department, Central Environment Authority, Coastal Conservation, and Coastal Resource Management Department, have been integrated into this online system to expedite the approval process efficiently.

Under this framework, approvals for basic plans are slated to be granted within 10 days, standard plans within 14 days, draft approvals within 21 days, and renewals within 10 days. Furthermore, the delineation of a one-kilometer coastal perimeter across the nation as an urban development area underscores the government's commitment to strategic development initiatives.

Applications for coastal tourism investments are currently being accepted through the online platform of the One Stop Unit. For further details and inquiries, individuals are encouraged to visit the website www.osu.uda.lk or reach out via telephone at 0113883251/0112874585. Alternatively, they can avail themselves of information by sending a text message to 0712076177. This concerted effort marks a pivotal step towards harnessing the untapped potential of coastal regions for sustainable tourism development.

In conclusion, the expeditious approval process spearheaded by the Urban Development Authority represents a significant stride towards unlocking the tourism potential inherent in coastal areas nationwide. By harnessing the collaborative efforts of key institutions and leveraging streamlined procedures, this initiative aims to catalyze investment, stimulate economic growth, and propel the tourism sector to new heights. As applications continue to be processed swiftly through the One Stop Unit, stakeholders are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to the vibrant development of coastal tourism. Together, we embark on a journey towards realizing the full spectrum of opportunities that our coastal landscapes offer, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for generations to come.