Efforts to control the fire that broke out in the Anawilundawa Ramsar Sanctuary are continuing without interruption, as officials and local residents work tirelessly to contain the blaze.
According to the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the fire erupted on Wednesday (19) in the Maiyiyawa Wewa Pitiyā area of the sanctuary in the Puttalam District.
Wildlife officers, together with the Chilaw Divisional Secretariat, Chilaw Pradeshiya Sabha, Arachchikattuwa Divisional Secretariat, Arachchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabha, and the Chilaw Fire Unit, have been mobilised to extinguish the flames.
Water bowsers and tractors are being deployed, with residents of Maiyiyawa and Bogahawetiya joining officials in the effort. The fire has already spread across about seven acres.
Although fire belts were cut and land prepared using backhoe machines as a method of control, strong winds and rising heat have made containment difficult.
One area has been fully brought under control, but the fire continues to spread in the direction of the wind. The prevailing dry weather has further intensified the situation, with officials and villagers working around the clock to prevent further spread.
Authorities emphasised the importance of protecting the sanctuary, which is of significant biological importance. (Newswire)