Residents, activists up in arms over filling of Kirimandala Mw marshland

By Yohan Perera

Residents and environmentalists down Kirimandala Mawatha have come out against the filling of marshland in the area allegedly by the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation and Development Corporation (SLLRDC), a government entity that is supposed to regulate wetlands, prevent illegal filling and reclamation, and protect sensitive ecosystems.   
“During the past few days, it has been cutting a mangrove habitat and clearing the only remaining wetland plot on Kirimandala Mawatha” Environmentalist Water Environment Sustainability Consultant Jayantha Wijesingha said.   
“ To make matters worse, while the government has banned open burning through the National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980 (NEA) and related gazettes and regulations, this wetland area is being burned day and night, creating heavy smoke that nearby residents are forced to endure. How can a government institution that is supposed to act as a regulator violate the most basic environmental laws itself? he questioned.   
Asked as to why the marsh land is filled up , Wijesingha told Daily Mirror it is done to expand a play ground which is located next to it.