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| Wednesday, 9 July 2003 |
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by Tharika Goonathilake A feasibility study to reclaim part of the land in the western coast, to meet the growing demand for urban land is under consideration by the Coast Conservation Department (CCD). One of the objectives of this giant scheme is aimed at tackling and curbing illegal constructions in the coastal zone. A team of Singaporean experts and consultants from CESMA, the Singapore Government undertaking, is to assist the department's initiative, which seeks a permanent solution to the recurring problem. According to CCD Director Dr.R.A.D.B Samaranayake, there are over 5,000 illegal constructions in the coastal belt, stretching from Colombo to Moratuwa alone. Attempts to relocate these people to other areas with special land allocations or continuous demolitions have not been successful. As a result, Dr. Samaranayake said, "the Government has to channel considerable funds every year, for rehabilitation and other activities, given the constant threats these families face due to coastal erosion and related problems, not to mention the environmental implications." He also said that these families return to rebuild in the same areas, after a span of a few months due to political patronage. "Illegal constructions in the coastal belt is a major problem for the country. Continuous attempts to halt construction activities have failed, since people in these areas have even gone to the extent of obtaining electricity and water. There is a socio-economic angle that cannot be overlooked, and this study might help Sri Lanka to develop this initiative," the Director said. The sea land reclamation project proposal, had been initially introduced in the early 1990s, but had not seen the light of day due to financial and other scientific constraints. However, with the Singaporean team, working with local authorities and experts, there is an opportunity for Sri Lanka to obtain their expertise since Singapore has been very successful in this attempt. "We can also obtain the technical know-how to minimise environmental and other impacts," he said. The Singaporean team is currently assisting local experts to develop a blueprint for the Government's mega development drive 'Megapolise Colombo-2025'. An ambitious program launched by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to promote the western region as the 'most liveable city in South Asia' by 2025. |
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