A welcome move by the President!

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake ordered the temporary suspension of two proposed wind power plants in the Mannar area,  a 20 MW facility and a 50 MW project despite tenders being called and contracts already awarded. Mannar has become vulnerable to various development projects over the past few years, much to the dismay of residents. A destination that attracts millions of migratory birds during the migratory season and a fragile ecosystem with various unique features shouldn’t be hijacked for commercial purposes. Projects such as ilmenite mining, prawn farms and wind power projects require more environmental assessments and public comments prior to commencement. Former regimes may have had vested interests in expediting these projects, but as a people-centric government, it is high time that this government stands with the people, for the people, by the people, at all times!

Asoka Ranasinghe

Moratuwa