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Badulu Oya polluted by sewage and garbage
View(s):Pix and Text by Palitha Ariyawansa
The Badulu Oya is facing severe pollution from unauthorised construction, sewage disposal, and garbage dumping, threatening both public health and the environment. Health officials warn of a growing health crisis, while environmentalists highlight the destruction of the river’s natural beauty.
From Bandarawela, Dik Arawa to Badulla, unauthorised houses and businesses have been built within the Oya’s reservation, with construction ongoing.
Sewage from private and state institutions, including drains from the Badulla Municipal Council and waste from the Hindagoda CTB bus depot, are released directly into the river.
Locals accuse government authorities and environmental agencies of failing to act. Environmentalist Sunil Hewanayake of Badulla stressed that even old shops built on the Oya’s banks operate with licenses issued by the MC. He warned that since Dunhinda Falls is fed by Badulu Oya, urgent action is required.
Residents also report unauthorised cattle slaughterers dumping animal waste into the river, while drains and canals continuously pollute the water.
The Uva Provincial Director of the Central Environmental Authority Chintha Palihapitiya said the main obstacle to enforcement is the lack of identified and demarcated Oya boundaries by the Irrigation Department, leading to encroachment and illegal acts. “A 2020-21 survey found hundreds of waste discharge points, and lawsuits are being prepared against offenders, including the Hindagoda CTB depot,” she said.
Badulla District Secretary Panduka Sri Prabath Abeywardena acknowledged the issue, noting it has been discussed at the District Coordination Committee. He said measures will be taken under the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme to address the issue.
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