Legal action against Kiribathgoda up stream polluters

Disna Mudalige

Legal action would be sought against those who discharged poisonous chemicals to Kiribathgoda up stream which connects to the Kelani River, Central Environmental Authority Chairman Wimal Rubasinghe said.

He said greater environmental harm has been caused by the discharge of chemical waste in to this stream. The death of fish was reported a few days ago in this stream.

The CEA under the direction of Chairman Rubasighe conducted an immediate field investigation to find out the cause of the death of fish. Accordingly, it was discovered that a thinner producing industry had discharged chemicals to the stream.

The CEA is presently conducting a special chemical analysis to find out whether the chemicals was diluted with the area's drinking water resources. He said area residents have been advised to use alternative drinking water wells for their needs.

Rubasighe also requested people to be vigilant about people who secretly discharge waste to rivers, streams, marshy lands and bare lands.

He requested them to inform the CEA, Environment Police Units or the respective Grama Niladari Division of such instances.