Maris students restore beauty of Maha Oya-Kammalthota Estuary after floods

By Algard Einston Fernando

An environmental clean-up programme was carried out at the MahaOya–KammalthotaEstuary in Kochchikade, on December 20. The pictures show the volunteers who took part in the programme hard at work

A successful environmental clean-up programme was carried out at the Maha Oya–Kammalthota Estuary in Kochchikade, on December 20 (Saturday)from 8.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., responding to the pollution caused by recent floods that deposited garbage and waste along the riverbank and estuarine waters.
The initiative was organised by the Maris Eco Friends Society of Maris Stella College, Negombo, with active participation from students representing college Prefects, Scouts, Red Cross members, and the Maris Eco Friends Association. The programme was further strengthened by the involvement of teachers and members of the Marist Lay Community, reflecting a strong spirit of collective environmental responsibility.
The programme was conducted under the guidance and presence of Maris Stella College Principal Rev. Br. Sunanda Alwis, Marist Provincial Rev. Br. Nicholas Fernando, and Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Hemantha. Their participation, along with that of the dedicated teachers and the Master-in-Charge of the Maris Eco Friends Society, Jude Fernando, greatly inspired the students. President of the Maris Eco Friends Society, Master ThenukaWijethunga, along with other student leaders, also played a key role in organising and executing the event. Their teamwork and commitment highlighted the importance of youth engagement in environmental conservation.
Valuable support was also provided by Dr. Geethal Siriwardane, Lecturer at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sunil Jayakodi, and the Poruthota Fisher Society, whose cooperation emphasised the close relationship between the estuary and the livelihoods it sustains.
The Maha Oya–Kammalthota Estuary, a vital ecological zone where freshwater meets the sea, holds immense environmental and social value. Efforts such as this clean-up not only restore its natural beauty, but also raise awareness about protecting fragile estuarine ecosystems for future generations.