Under the leadership of Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi, the government has formally declared eight mangrove forest systems in the Puttalam District as new reserves, with the gazette signed yesterday (27) at the Ministry of Environment.
The move forms part of the national program “Give Space for Mangroves to Breathe”, implemented in line with the government’s environmental policy “A Sustainable Biosphere – Evergreen Life.”
Coinciding with International Mangrove Ecosystem Conservation Day on July 26, the declaration marks another significant step under the broader “Vanaspathi” program.
The newly protected mangrove forests, Thilliyadiya, Sammattawadiya, Muthalapali, Kudawa, Kumbutu Kuliyawa, Karambe, Kandakuliya, and Mandala Kudawa, cover a total of 176.67 hectares.
Officials state the initiative aims to raise public awareness of the importance of mangrove ecosystems, while promoting their sustainable management, conservation, and responsible use.
In 2025, several mangrove forests in the Puttalam and Chilaw range offices were also declared reserves under the same program, bringing about 67 hectares under protection.
Sri Lanka currently has approximately 12,500 hectares of mangrove land, the largest extent concentrated in lagoon and estuary areas of the Puttalam District. Research has identified 11 species of mangroves recorded across the island. (Newswire)