Disna MUDALIGE
The Forest Conservation Department (FCD) has not granted permission for a forest clearance within the one mile buffer zone of the Wilpattu National Park, said Conservator General H M Hitisekera when inquired by the Daily News yesterday.
He said that any forest land coming under the department in the Wanathawilluwa Divisional Secretariat Division had not been released for any institution to carry out agricultural projects.
It was reported that 254 acres in Moradawilluwa and Thausamadama near Kala Oya are being cleared to be distributed among people for cultivation claiming that they have obtained FCD permission.
Environment Conservation Trust Director Sajeewa Chamikara pointed out that the forest clearance may aggravate the human-elephant conflict while disturbing the eco-system of this area. He observed that written permission should be obtained from the Wildlife Conservation Department (WCD) director general before starting such a project according to the process of environment impact assessment specified under the National Environment Act. Otherwise it is a violation of the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance.
When inquired from WCD Director General H D Ratnayake, he noted that the Department has not granted permission to this project.
He noted that the department will not hesitate to take legal action against any project carried out within forest lands that come under its perview, if it has harmed the environment violating the environment laws and regulations. Wanathawilluwa Divisional Secretary was not available for comment.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/29/news40.asp
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