The government has decided to provide compensation based on a new scientific assessment after considering objections raised by the affected residents regarding previous evaluations.
Accordingly, more than Rs. 300 million has been allocated in the first phase for 276 people who lost their lands during the construction of the Uma Oya project reservoirs.
As an initial step, compensation cheques worth Rs. 1.2 million each were handed over to 73 families from the Uva Paranagama and Welimada Divisional Secretariat divisions at a ceremony held at the Badulla District Secretariat yesterday (12).
The decisions were taken following an observation visit carried out by the Cabinet Sub-Committee in the affected areas. Authorities said a large number of beneficiaries have already accepted and signed for the compensation payments.
The government expects the programme to help resolve long-standing issues related to land ownership and compensation in the Welimada, Uva Paranagama and Hali Ela Divisional Secretariat divisions caused by the Uma Oya project.
Plantations and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyarathna, Badulla District Secretary Sunil Galagama and other officials and beneficiaries attended the event.
