News - Task force set to rap Knuckles encroachers

News

Task force set to rap Knuckles encroachers

A group of environmentalists have banded themselves together to form a task force to protect the Dumbara Range in Matale, better known world-wide as the Knuckles Range, which is being threatened by encroachers.

This range of mountains with its endemic fauna and flora has been named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its forest terrain contributes to the environmental purification of the five climatic zones unique to the area.

‘The Citizens Brigade for the Protection of the Dumbara Range’ based in Matale urges all Sri Lankans and nature lovers the world over to join the task force in protecting and preserving this unique Range which is fast facing destruction due to the privately owned property within the range being turned into man-made jungles complete with concrete structures.

Environmentalists allege that most of these private properties have been acquired by unlawful means by influential persons in bids to promote so-called eco-tourism etc.

Those interested in joining to protect this sensitive mountain range could obtain further details from:

The Citizens Brigade for the Protection of the Dumbara Range, Pitawala, Illukkumbura, Matale.

Tel: 060-2663566. E-mail:
knuckles@sltnet.lk

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