The government has officially declared Nilgala Forest, Sri Lanka’s second largest forest spanning 40,684.99 hectares, as a protected reserve, with the gazette notification published.

In a statement, Minister of Environment Dammika Patabendi said steps were taken under the National Forestry Programme to declare Nilgala Forest as a reserve, in line with World Environment Day 2025.

He further said the move is a landmark step under the National Forestry Programme, aimed at safeguarding biodiversity and reducing environmental degradation.

“For a tropical country like Sri Lanka, protecting forest reserves is vital not only for environmental and biodiversity conservation but also for creating sustainable habitats for wildlife. This strengthens our journey towards a greener nation where humans and nature coexist,” he noted.

The Minister emphasized that the declaration will contribute to building a sustainable biosphere and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering evergreen life for future generations. (Newswire)

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