| dc.description.abstract | The ‘Blue Economy’, defined as the sustainable utilization of ocean resources, represents a transformative opportunity for Sri Lanka, especially in its post-crisis economic recovery. Among its key sectors, coastal tourism plays a vital role in driving sustainable growth and generating foreign exchange. However, the number of tourist drowning incidents presents a significant challenge, threatening both the safety of visitors and the country’s GDP contribution. This research examines the critical role of lifeguard services in minimizing drowning fatalities and strengthening coastal safety as a strategic pillar of blue economy development. Enhancing these services is essential not only for saving lives but also for reinforcing Sri Lanka’s image as a safe and attractive destination for international tourists. Further comparative analysis reveals that countries in the region with a strong emphasis on tourism tend to invest substantially in structured lifeguard training and coastal safety mechanisms. Adopting similar models could offer significant benefits to Sri Lanka by enhancing coastal safety and promoting sustainable tourism growth. Drawing on a qualitative research approach, this study evaluates the current capabilities of Sri Lanka’s lifeguard workforce through interviews, focus group discussions, field observations, and document analysis. The data collection focused on existing lifeguard capabilities, training standards, deployment mechanisms, and public awareness strategies. Findings reveal significant progress, with a 20% reduction in drowning rates over the past decade and an average of 300 rescues annually in Sri Lanka. However, gaps persist in training consistency, resource availability, coastal coverage, and the integration of advanced technologies such as drones and remote surveillance systems. Challenges also include inadequate public awareness, gender disparities within the lifeguard workforce, and communication barriers with international tourists. The research highlights the potential of initiatives like the Blue Flag certification to align beach safety with international standards, thereby boosting tourist confidence and fostering sustainable coastal tourism. It also emphasizes the importance of strategic investments in safety infrastructure, collaborative policymaking, and the incorporation of modern technologies to achieve zero tourist fatalities. Recommendations are made to strengthen institutional coordination, upgrade lifeguard training to international standards, introduce technology-assisted rescue systems, and implement community-based awareness programs. By enhancing lifeguard capabilities, Sri Lanka can significantly reduce tourist drowning incidents, reinforcing its image as a safe coastal destination and contributing to the sustainable growth of its blue economy. | en_US |
