On the instructions of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) Chairman Engineer Anura Walpola has asked for an urgent report on sand mining in Kelani River for flood control, the GSMB said in a press release today.
The Chairman has issued this instruction following a communication made by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to mark the World Wetlands Day on February 3, in which it was stated that although sand mining in Kelani River is prohibited, sand mining becomes necessary for the safety of certain areas.
The Chairman has instructed the Director General of GSMB to examine the possibility of using sand mining in Kelani River as a means of flood control.
As a measure taken to protect the environment, the issue of permits for sand mining in Kelani River has been suspended for several years.
Add new comment