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Last Updated : 2024-04-30 08:57:00
Colombo, April 9 (Daily Mirror) - Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation Minister Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi has directed the authorities concerned to promptly address the spread of the invasive plant species 'Koenigia Mollis' in the tropical rainforest surrounding the Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) mountain range.
She instructed officials to implement measures focused on biodiversity conservation and to employ scientific and technical methods for the removal of the invasive plant.
The invasive plant has been found to have spread along the roads leading to Sri Pada, near the stalls, shops and toilets.
In areas where the plant has spread, native plants have been completely overwhelmed and destroyed.
Researchers at Sabaragamuwa University have discovered that a particular plant, typically found growing 6 to 8 feet tall near mountainous areas, gradually weakens the stability of its root system. This weakening contributes to an increased risk of landslides occurring at the mountain peaks.
It has also been confirmed that this invasive plant has a serious effect on biodiversity. This plant first appeared in Myanmar and the Eastern Himalayas. It has now spread to Nepal and China.
Wildlife and Forest Conservation Ministry Secretary Gunadasa Samarasinghe, Wild Life Director General Chandana Sooriyabandara, Forest Conservation Director General Nishantha Edirisinghe were also at the discussion.
During the discussion, the minister instructed the Wildlife Director General to furnish a comprehensive report on the progress of removing the invasive plant.
The minister also mentioned the need for immediate action, suggesting the formation of an intellectual committee composed of officials from organizations such as UNESCO, environmental groups, and universities.
Professor Cyril Wijesundara and former Basnayaka Nilame of Saman Devalaya, Sunil Weerasekera of Sabaragamuwa Saman Devalaya also participated in the discussion.
M Perera Tuesday, 09 April 2024 10:31 AM
This is why SL should implement strict biodiversity laws. When people enter the country they should declare any seeds, plants and fruit. They they should be binned.
wickrama wijayasiri Tuesday, 09 April 2024 11:36 AM
Solution is simple. Pay people by the weight to collect and deliver for burning. Knowing our people, make sue that they are not cultivating for the purpose, as a precaution. Use whistle blowers?
S.Chandralal Kumarasiri De Silva Tuesday, 09 April 2024 11:44 AM
This Japanese Knot weed is not only Sripada all in around around Nuwsraeliya above 1800 meters ASL including Piduruthslagala natural reserve was invaded heavily also Acacia malanoxcylan (Black wattle ) also heavily invading the Piduruthalagala natural forest range certainly need a research on this national issue urgently.
Paranapala Hungoda Tuesday, 09 April 2024 01:11 PM
Another one to worship!!
Lal. Fernando. Wednesday, 10 April 2024 02:24 AM
This plant is found all over Sri Lanka. This minister should put these some plant clippings in a pot and put them to the sea. That might help to eradicate the issue.
M.S.Jothipala Wednesday, 10 April 2024 05:37 PM
Fantastic. Will they stop people from climbing this hill.Jothipala
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