Cabinet approves measures to tackle illegal land grabbing in Eastern Province

Colombo, June 23 (Daily Mirror) - The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a series of measures proposed by the President to address illegal land grabbing, unauthorized land reclamation, and illicit coastal constructions in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.

The government said these unregulated activities, often driven by political influence and patronage, have led to serious social, economic, and administrative challenges in the region. Authorities also warned that unauthorized coastal constructions are accelerating marine erosion along the Eastern coastline, posing a significant threat to fragile ecosystems.

In addition to environmental concerns, the government noted ongoing development and national security challenges in the province, including delays in structured resettlement programs for displaced communities, even 16 years after the end of the civil conflict. It further highlighted that deviations from established administrative criteria in forming local government structures have hindered regional development and governance.

To address these issues, the government has approved the establishment of an “Eastern Province Land Protection Committee” to strengthen enforcement and coordination. The committee will be chaired by former Southern Province Land Commissioner and current Local Government Commissioner Senaka Palliyaguruge, and will include representatives from relevant state institutions.

A special enforcement unit led by a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police will also be set up to support operations, with security forces empowered to halt illegal land grabs and unauthorized reclamation activities, including those allegedly backed by political actors.

Separately, the government will move to repossess state lands allocated by the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka more than five years ago where no development projects have been initiated. These lands will be handed over to Divisional Secretaries for redistribution in support of local development initiatives.

Authorities also plan to expedite a structured plan to develop the Eastern Province’s tourism sector while ensuring coastal conservation. A transparent regulatory mechanism will be introduced to ensure lawful and impartial enforcement in managing coastal hotel developments.