News Report: "Rathu Ira" Newspaper (Today, Sunday the 26th)
Chairman of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau Intervenes to Inform Relevant Authorities Regarding Groups Damaging Coral Reefs Near Galle Fort Beach
Coral reefs, which are rich in biodiversity, serve as vital habitats for marine flora and fauna. They play a crucial role in preventing coastal erosion and are a major attraction for tourism.
Following a telephone call from journalist Ms. B.H. Ramya informing him that individuals are breaking and damaging these invaluable coral reefs—which take a long time to grow and face the threat of extinction and destruction—the Chairman of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau, Mr. P.G.G.S. Jayan, took immediate action. He notified all relevant parties, including the Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Ratna Gamage, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) in charge of the Galle District, the Chairman of the Galle Heritage Foundation, the Coast Conservation Department, the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA).
Upon being informed of this matter, the Deputy Minister addressed all officials and police during the Habaraduwa Regional Coordinating Committee meeting on the 24th. He instructed them to closely monitor individuals causing damage to coral reefs in all areas and to take swift legal action.
The Ruhunu Tourism Bureau has already directed its attention toward the gradual destruction of these coral resources, which hold immense value for the tourism sector. Furthermore, steps will be taken in the near future to hold discussions with relevant communities, businessmen, and authorities to ensure the necessary interventions are made.
