Residents of Meemure have expressed deep concern over the rising number of tragic accidents involving visitors to the historic and scenic village, urging authorities to take immediate action to ensure tourist safety.
In recent days, two separate incidents have claimed lives in the area. The first occurred on the Hunnasgiriya–Meemure road when a van carrying tourists veered off the narrow, winding road and plunged down a precipice, killing a woman and injuring several others.
The second incident took place on 10th of August and was highlighted during a magisterial inquiry led by Ududumbara Acting Coroner D. M. Gamini Basnayake. Buddhika Sisira Kumara Boyagane, a 28-year-old man from Wewuda, drowned after jumping into a deep pool of water while bathing in a stream in Meemure. He was visiting the village with a group of tourists from Kurunegala.
Coroner Basnayake noted that many visitors are attracted to the area’s popular bathing spot, known as “Thali Kata,” without realizing the dangers. The pool is deep and unprotected, and those who jump in often take a long time to resurface, increasing the risk of drowning. He further stated that seven people had already drowned at this site in recent times, making Boyagane’s death the eighth recorded fatality.
Villagers highlighted that both local and foreign tourists are drawn to Meemure’s waterways and surrounding mountain terrain, but many ignore warnings and fail to seek guidance from local safety groups. They stressed that these tragedies could have been prevented had visitors followed instructions from local guides or village elders.
The community has appealed to authorities to implement stricter safety measures and urged tourist groups to act responsibly while visiting the area.
