"Let the Mangroves Breathe" Prog Launched to Protect Sri Lanka's Coastal Ecosystems

Under the new national environmental policy, around 67 hectares of mangrove forests in the Puttalam District have been designated as protected areas. These include forests in Marambettiya Mukalana, Wavulkale, Marawala (A, B, C), Kusala, and Karukapane B.

The official launch event was held this morning at Karamba, Palaviya, with the participation of Minister Dr. Dammika Patabandige and State Minister Anton Jayakody, and organized by the Department of Forest Conservation.

In parallel, a mangrove planting program took place in Kalpitiya, engaging the local fishing community in restoration efforts.

Sri Lanka is home to approximately 12,500 hectares of mangrove land, particularly concentrated in the Puttalam Moya region, with 11 mangrove species identified across the island.

Additional awareness programs were also held today around the Anavilundawa Ramsar Wetland Sanctuary, focusing on sustainable mangrove management and conservation.