Responding to public safety concerns regarding unrestricted animals on main thoroughfares, the Nuwara Eliya Municipal Council has issued a stringent regulatory framework governing ponies and horses operating in the town's tourism zones.

Under the new municipal guidelines, all pony handlers operating around Lake Gregory and Victoria Park must register their animals, undergo mandatory veterinary inspections, and keep mounts within designated bridle trails. Municipal wardens warned that roaming unattended livestock will be impounded to prevent road traffic collisions and maintain urban hygiene for visiting holidaymakers.