News
Farming throughout the year triggers collapse of Anawilundawa Ramsar wetland ecosystem
Increase in growth of water vegetation have resulted in the deaths of fish and birds in the tank
Large trees and the mangroves in Anawilundawa Ramsar wetland’s ecosystem have been badly affected by human activity and are on the verge of destruction.
Environmental organisations explained that the wetland usually experienced dry and wet seasons where the water levels would drop and rise, allowing the mangrove and Kumbuk trees to dry their roots and grow.
But farming activity throughout the year has changed the natural cycle. The farmers keep the tank system active, and the wetland continues to be immersed in water. As a result, large Kumbuk trees and mangroves are underwater year-round. The trees have perished, and the bird population has lost its roosting trees. The birds have also started to leave the area. The Sunday Times observed large Kumbuk trees that are dying, that there is an increase in the growth of water vegetation, and that fish and birds have been dying.
Ajith Gihan, the convener of Wayamba Handa, an environmental organisation, said the fish in the tank system—connected to the wetland—have been dying. Large birds, too, have died. “This is causing the ecosystem to collapse.”
Slow death for large kumbuk trees
He said large Kumbuk trees have started to die as the root systems of the trees remain underwater throughout the year as farmers who use the tanks and irrigation systems that connect to the wetland have started to cultivate the two main seasons.
The authorities should discuss with farmers and find a solution to save the wetland, he said.
Wayamba University’s Prof. Sewwandi Jayakody said the Anavilundawa Ramsar wetland is facing a dangerous situation.
“These days, the fish in the tank system and the pelicans are dying. That is only one issue; we need to manage the tank system,’’ he said.
She said wetlands were very sensitive and the ecosystem had been subjected to many activities within a short period. Human activity could speed up the change.
The Puttalam District’s Assistant Wildlife Director, Eranda Gamage, was not available for comment.
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