Field surveys underway to locate suitable areas for sand mining in Trincomalee

After issuing a temporary order of prohibition by the Geological Survey and Mining Bureau (GSMB), for sand mining in the Mahaweli River basin from 15^th to 28^th February, the officials of GSMB with the assistance of the Navy have commenced a survey to identify the sand mining areas of the Mahaweli River in Trincomalee.

Accordingly, a number of field visits were carried out to review the issues pertinent to the illegal sand mining. During these field visits several places used for sand mining were inspected and suitable places for sand mining were also identified. Apart from that, license which have been issued at present were also examined. The survey covered about 300 places including Neelapola, Wellanawan Irudiyapuram and Sembalsetti in the District of Trincomalee. Through these measures, it is expected to minimize the environmental impacts and protect the ecosystem that is under a serious threat as a result of this illegal activity.

The surveys are assisted by the officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, Sri Lanka Geological Survey and Mining Bureau, Central Environmental Authority, District Secretariat, Trincomalee and Sri Lanka Police. It is also reminded that conservation of the ecosystem is an utmost responsibility of all Sri Lankans in perfect unison.