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1,500 illegal coastal buildings being demolished
The Coast Conservation Department (CCD) has begun the demolition of more than 1,500 illegally constructed buildings, including hotels, restaurants and houses, on the coastline throughout the country, a senior official said.
The demolition began this week at Unawatuna in Galle, Bambalapitiya and Mt Lavinia.
CCD Director General B.K. Prabath Chandrakeerthi told the Sunday Times the illegal constructions were identified in a study which cost Rs. 15 million.
He said the study revealed that some of the constructors had fraudulently obtained the authority to complete the buildings and carry on with their business.
He said some hotels and restaurants operating illegally were also disposing of garbage and waste into the sea. The southern coast and the North Western coast have been identified as the most polluted areas.
He said the Police and STF were providing assistance to officials to carry out the demolitions.