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Fhoto focus: Ussangoda Park… a story of neglect
A unique feature of the park are patches of fiery red patches of soil on which nothing seems to be able to grow
The Ussangoda Park at Ambalanthota, covers an area of around 100 hectares of land and locations of archeological value. The park once a tourist attraction is now in a badly neglect state.
A unique feature of the park is its patches of red soil which resemble fiery lava pouring out of a volcano. These patches of red earth which are found in a number of places begin and end abruptly. Another feature of the park are the larva-like rocks which appear in diverse areas.
Neither plants, nor even weeds seem to be able to survive in the red soil. These barren patches of red soil standout like mini deserts amidst the scrub jungle which surround them.
Situated by the sea with no natural windbreaks, the area is windblown and only cactus-like plants eg. Karamba, Pathok, Eraminiya plants from the Kalametiya Sanctuary, seem to be able to withstand the salinity and dry conditions which prevail here.
Erosion is also affecting the boundaries of the park and the sea is gradually washing away the land area.
The ocean is rapidly eating away at the shoreline
The pictures above and below, say it all… no one cares for the one-time attraction
A picturesque view of the ocean
Another feature of the park are the larva-like formations which can be seen in different areas of the park