News
Quick action by armed forces saves major damage to biodiversity-rich Diyagama forest
View(s):By Tharushi Weerasinghe
A fire that broke out in the Diyagama forest has destroyed a section that contained endangered and endemic butterflies.
The fire was seen by Diyagama resident and researcher Lahiru Jayawickrema who noticed the blaze when he was walking past the forest. “I called the other researchers I work with and Major General Thushara Harasgama sent an army response team to douse the fire within a few minutes. Major General Harasgama is the Director General of the Diyagama International Sports Complex and is also charged with the responsibility of overseeing the forest which falls under the Ministry of Sports.
Mr. Jayawickrema had rushed off to get help and water after making his calls and returned to find the officers halfway through putting the fire out. He pointed out that the presence of a burnt log, which seemed to have been set on fire, indicated the fire was most likely arson as the fire had originated about 20 metres from the road border of the forest.
Diyagama forest was recently in the headlines following the Sports Ministry’s controversial plans to use the forest land for hostel facilities and a cricket pitch. However following appeals from scientists and researchers over the unique and diverse biodiversity, including the existence of the endemic red slender loris, the minister assured that any plans made would prioritise conservation.
Researchers who work in the forest noted that fencing for the security of the forest had been a top priority. The Ministry of Sports agreed.
“The Ministry just completed budgeting for fencing around the forest so that we can keep encroachers out and maintain it safely,” assured a Sports Ministry source who wished to remain anonymous. He noted that following discussions the army had taken over the project under Major General Thushara Harasgama, who is also heading the investigation into the fire. An update on the investigation is due early next week.
Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage expressed appreciation for the swift response by the army personnel who helped contain the blaze before it could spread further into the forest. The Minister commended the officers for their prompt action in protecting the sensitive ecosystem and noted that such coordinated efforts were vital to safeguarding the biodiversity of the Diyagama Forest.
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