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Troubled villagers question Matale quarry
View(s):Residents of Rathwatta, Udathenna in Matale are calling for an inquiry into extraction activity at a rose quartz quarry over concerns of public health and damage to the environment. They claim activity has damaged the Elkaduwa-Matale Road.
Extraction activity takes place at a rose quartz quarry
Chaminda Abeyratne, who lives near the quarry estimated to be more than two acres-wide, suspects that environmental laws have been violated. He claims to have reliable information that authorities have approved the quarrying work and is demanding an impartial inquiry and immediate action to prevent further destruction.
The venerable Alawathugoda Chandivimala Thero at Nawarathnagoda Jinaraja Viharaya says that the quarry owner claims to have permission. “We ask the authorities to hold an inquiry. We can’t keep quiet seeing this land perish,’’ he said. Homes have suffered damage and he fears earthslips during rains.
M M A I Janaka, the deputy director of the Central Geological Department, says permission and environmental safety recommendations are given after consulting the National Construction Institute, Geological Survey Department, the Ukuwela local council and the Divisional Secretary. He has been informed that the quarry once belonged to the State Plantations Corporation and now belongs to the Land Reforms Commission, he says.