As individuals with disabilities demand accessible travel options, the tourism industry responds with more inclusive services. This, in turn, encourages the growth of accessible tourism initiatives, benefitting not just persons with disabilities but also elderly travelers and those with temporary mobility impairments.
Manique Gunaratne created the opportunity for a group of persons with disabilities to visit the Batticaloa Gate and the Gandhi Park in Batticaloa in January 2023.
Batticaloa Gate is monument, which was used as port to connect Puliyanthivu (island) with the mainland of Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. The place believed as landing site of Rev. William Ault, who was the first Methodist missionary to Batticaloa, in 1814. His statue can be seen closer to the Batticaloa Gate.
Batticaloa Gate and its surrounding areas are under the renovation as part of Batticaloa development project.
MANIQUE GUNARATNE
Core Founder – Lanka School on Internet Governance
