Colombo canals turn into garbage dumps despite SLLDC dengue prevention claims

By Mangala Pavithrani

Colombo, July 8 (Daily Mirror) - Despite claims by the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation (SLLDC) that a special programme is underway to maintain cleanliness in Colombo’s canal system and reduce dengue risks, recent footage has revealed that several canals have become potential breeding grounds for dengue mosquitoes.

During a visit by the Daily Mirror to several major canals in Colombo, including the Havelock Canal, it was observed that many waterways had been turned into garbage dumps filled with plastic, polythene and other solid waste.

The deteriorating condition of the canals has raised public health concerns, particularly amid the ongoing rainy weather and reports of an increase in dengue cases across the country. Stagnant water and accumulated waste in canals provide ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.

Members of the public have called on the authorities to take immediate action to address the worsening condition of Colombo’s canal network.

Responding to the concerns, the SLLDC said a special programme is already being implemented to maintain cleanliness in the canal system and minimise dengue risks.

The Corporation said floating waste from major canals, including the Havelock Canal, is being removed using mechanical equipment as part of the ongoing cleaning programme.

However, the SLLDC identified continuous illegal dumping of garbage into canals as the biggest challenge despite regular cleaning operations.

The Corporation also warned that legal action would be taken against individuals who dump waste into canals, with assistance from the Environmental Police. Pix by Nisal Baduge