The Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has reported a sharp rise in marine waste, including plastics, drifting into Sri Lankan waters from India with the onset of the monsoon season.

The Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has reported a sharp rise in marine waste, including plastics, drifting into Sri Lankan waters from India with the onset of the monsoon season.

MEPA Chairman Samantha Gunasekara said most of the debris has been found along the coasts of Kalpitiya, Negombo, Mannar, Jaffna, and Delft.

The Ministry of Environment has launched a special investigation into the matter, while Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody said discussions will be held with Indian authorities to seek a solution.