An urgent appeal to keep Beira Lake clean

While passing along Sir James Peiris Mawatha in Colombo 2, a strong and unpleasant odour—reminiscent of decaying organic matter —was noticed emanating from the Beira Lake, very close to Bishop’s College.

 This is an earnest appeal to the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to take immediate action to clean the lake or apply effective odour-control measures. The Beira Lake must remain clean and serene, especially as it surrounds the Seema Malaka of the Gangaramaya Temple—a revered place of worship and meditation.

 Upon her return from Australia, Mayoress Vraie Balthazaar may consider applying the urban management insights gained during her official tour to enhance Colombo’s cleanliness and aesthetics. Moreover, organisations such as Clean Sri Lanka could collaborate with the CMC to restore the lake’s environment promptly.

 The current foul smell inconveniences school children, corporate employees, devotees, residents and passersby alike. Addressing this issue will not only improve public hygiene but also preserve the spiritual and cultural sanctity of our city’s heart.

Mohamed Zahran Colombo