Navy assures to release approx 100 acres of land for the Mullikulam public
 

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne today (29, April), assured to immediately release approximately 100 acres of land to the general public in Mullikulam. He expressed these views during a cordial discussion held with the families in Mullikulam, whilst on an inspection visit to the Northwestern Naval Area on Saturday. The discussion transpired positively, as the people agreed to settle around 100 acres of agricultural land, in the proximity of the 'Our Lady of Assumption Parish Council' Church, in lieu of 300 acres that the Navy had earlier consented to release.

Around 185 families are registered in the Mullikulam locality. Meanwhile, the locals expressed reluctance to a proposition made by the Navy, allowing the latter's swift transition into 27 houses previously constructed by same and making-way for the families’ immediate settlement. Subsequently, the Navy had requested an additional 8 months for the gradual shifting from the occupied 27 houses in the Northern boundary of the Naval base, until completion of construction of the new buildings compensating the already constructed 27 houses occupied by the locals.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the Navy had requested the public to go about with the immediate settlement and assured that the Navy is unequivocally committed in assisting the families and will continue to coordinate and cooperate in matters of common interests. The Navy will continue with its CSR projects in the area, in view of uplifting the social welfare of the people, he further said.

The initiative is a confirmation of H.E the President's vision in progress for the prompt and gradual resettlement of the displaced in the Northern and Eastern provinces.

Rev. Fr. Victor Sosai, Vicar General of Mannar, Rev, Fr. Marquess of the Arippu Church, Tamil National Alliance MP Selvan Addikalanadan, ITAK MP Charles Nimalanathan, District Secretary Moosali Mr. Selladurai Ketheeshwaran, Commander Northwestern Naval Area Rear Admiral Rasika Dissanayake and several other senior naval officers were also present at the occasion.