Residents and Experts Fight Unplanned Development to Save Mannar Island

Residents and environmental experts on Mannar Island are continuing their fight against unplanned development, particularly concerning the installation of wind power projects, which they argue are detrimental to the environment and causing loss of livelihood.

Key Issues and Protests:

• Public Outcry: Residents held a 105-day protest demanding an end to upcoming projects that threatened natural resources. The protest was called off on November 15 after President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assured that no future wind power projects would be planned without the people’s consent.

• Environmental Concerns: Experts, like engineer Robert Pieris, question why Mannar was chosen for wind projects, given that it is a sand island covered with protected areas like the Vankalai Sanctuary and serves as a crucial habitat for over 4,000 species including dugongs and migratory birds.

• Detrimental Impacts: Existing wind power construction has caused issues:

  • A newly constructed road for transporting turbine materials lacks proper drainage, blocking natural waterways and leading to prolonged flooding during the rainy season.

  • Residents claim they were excluded from or confused by the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) consultation process.

• Existing and Future Projects: While 30 wind turbines are installed under Phase I, 14 more are yet to be installed, including 10 proposed in Konnayan Kudiyirippu village, which locals fear will affect farming and other industries.

• Government Response: Following the Bishop of Mannar’s petition to the District Secretary, K. Kanakeshwaran announced that a committee comprising all stakeholders will be appointed to monitor the implementation of ongoing projects. The Deputy Minister of Environment stated that while turbines currently under construction have approval, any future phases would be installed elsewhere to protect Mannar Island.

Source:

https://www.dailymirror.lk/print/news-features/Resisting-unplanned-development-Residents-experts-continue-fight-to-save-Mannar-Island/131-326041