Illegal sandminers running rampant in Kilinochchi

Residents and farmers in Kilinochchi are facing severe difficulties owing to actions of illegal sandminers in Kandavalai, Periyakulam, where rampant illegal sandmining has affected the flow of water supply. 

Illegal sandmining has been ongoing near canals taking water from the Periyakulam tank. This has resulted in severe damage to canals taking water to paddy fields. It has also damaged the nearby forest reserve and also affected water supply to people, area residents allege.

Farmers say the damage is so extensive that they may not be able to obtain enough water to farm their fields during the upcoming Maha season. 

Upon complaints made to the Kandavalai Divisional Secretariat, a team of officials visited the area to inspect the damage. After observing that the damage was indeed extensive, they assured area residents that action will be taken to notify relevant authorities and the police about the issue and action will be taken to halt the illegal sandmining. 

By Romesh Madushanka