New laws to address environment issues

Disna MUDALIGE

Priority of the Environment Ministry will be given to solve the major issues which affects the society, said Environment Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa assuming duties yesterday.

Excessive sand mining, large scale deforestation, solid waste management, the human elephant conflict, environment pollution and urbanization will be given concern under the new administration. He emphasized that the solid waste management is a big issue which should be handled in stages with a proper plan.

The Minister also praised the tremendous work initiated by the former Environment Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and assured to carry out the duties with equal efficiency. He said that new laws and regulations will be added to the existing ones to strengthen the legal approach to the issues related to the environment.

The Minister said that he hopes to tackle with these issues sensitively with the support of the people in the country, ignoring the disturbances and interferences of the illegal powers behind the scene.

He also noted that people should be encouraged to adapt environment friendly life styles while being closer to the nature.

Power and Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and Economic Development Deputy Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena were also present.