Categories: Articles

LNP – Issuing permits for inland sand mining suspended: Env. Ministry

The Environment Ministry instructed the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to suspend issuing inland sand mining permits.

The decision was announced by Minister Mahinda Amaraweera following reports of massive environmental damage due to inland sand mining in the village of Walewatta in Ambalantota.

“The land area had been completely destroyed due to inland sand mining. It has also been observed that cultivable paddy lands as well as economic crop such as coconut cultivation lands have been destroyed due to inland sand mining,” the Minister said.

The GSMB was advised to conduct a comprehensive investigation and submit a report and to decide on the way forward, based on the recommendations laid down in the investigation report.

Until then, the Minister instructed to take steps to temporarily suspend issuing permits for inland sand mining.

Tyronne Jayamanne

View Comments

Recent Posts

LNP – 150 elephants trapped, starving in Oyamaduwa: Veterinary Association

Around 150 elephants, including tuskers and calves, are reportedly trapped and starving in the Oyamaduwa…

2 hours ago

LNP – Visitors to be allowed in Sigiriya during moon-lit nights

In a bid to boost revenue from tourism, the Tourism Ministry has decided to allow…

2 hours ago

LNP – IRD records highest-ever tax revenue collection in 2024

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has recorded its highest-ever tax revenue collection in 2024, amounting…

2 hours ago

LNP – Nearly 300,000 dog bites reported annually in Sri Lanka

The Public Health Veterinary Service reports that nearly 300,000 dog bites are recorded annually in…

3 hours ago

LNP – Navy seizes 11.3 kg of gold, arrests three suspects

The Sri Lanka Navy has arrested three suspects with 11.3 kg of gold who were…

3 hours ago

LNP – No change in Litro Gas prices for January

The Litro Gas Company says that the prices of its domestic LP Gas cylinders will…

3 hours ago