Residents of Meemure have raised alarm over the growing number of tragic accidents involving visitors to the historic and scenic village, calling on authorities to take urgent steps to ensure tourist safety.

In the past few days, two separate incidents have claimed lives in the area. The first occurred on the Hunnasgiriya–Meemure road when a van carrying a group of tourists veered off the narrow, winding road and plunged down a precipice, killing a woman and injuring several others.

The second incident was reported on 10 August, during a magisterial inquiry led by Ududumbara Acting Coroner D. M. Gamini Basnayake. A 28-year-old man, Buddhika Sisira Kumara Boyagane of Wewuda drowned after jumping into a deep pool of water while bathing in a stream flowing through Meemure. He was visiting with a group of tourists from Kurunegala.

Coroner Basnayake noted that many visitors flock to the area’s popular bathing spot, known as “Thali Kata”, unaware of the dangers. The pool is deep and unprotected, and those who leap in often take a long time to resurface, increasing the risk of drowning. According to him, seven people had already drowned there in recent times, with this being the eighth recorded death.

Villagers emphasised that both local and foreign tourists are drawn to Meemure’s waterways and surrounding mountain terrain, but many outsiders ignore warnings and avoid seeking guidance from local safety groups. They stressed that had visitors followed instructions from local guides or elders, such tragedies could have been prevented.

Community members have appealed to the relevant authorities to implement safety measures and for tourist groups to act responsibly. (Courtesy: Mawbima)