In line with World Environment Day 2025, steps have been taken under the Vanaspathi National Programme to declare the Nilgala Forest—Sri Lanka’s second-largest forest—as a protected forest reserve.
Covering an extent of 40,684.99 hectares, the official Gazette notification confirming the declaration has already been issued.
The establishment and protection of forest reserves are considered critically important for a tropical country like Sri Lanka. This initiative is expected to play a key role in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and the creation of nutrient-rich habitats for wildlife.
Authorities note that such measures will significantly contribute to promoting human–wildlife coexistence and advancing Sri Lanka’s journey towards becoming a green and sustainable nation.
