Kithul plants on hill slopes

Ariyapala Wansathilake- Kurunegala Central Special

The Provincial Agricultural Ministry has initiated a programme to plant 50,000 kithul plants on the hill slopes of the North Western Province, which has been devastated by illicit clearing and illegal hooch manufacturers. Especially, the perennial springs which are in the upper reaches of Deduru Oya, Kospotu Oya and Kuda Oya have dried up as a result of this illegal clearings. The plantations are expected to help in soil conservation providing forest cover.

Provincial Minister H.M.D.B. Herath said that the forest Department would supply the necessary plants and the Divisional Secretary of Mawathagama and Rideegama will identify the areas for planting and assist in social mobilization.

He said that the Samurdhi Commissioner will also provide the manpower by making available about 500 Samurdhi recipients to participate in this task.

The Provincial Minister said that within five years these kithul trees will be ready for tapping and the by products of sweet toddy.

Toddy tappers will be trained with the assistance of NYC of the NWP.