Fire erupts at Hanthana Environmental Protection Area

By Nadeeka Daya Bandara & Nishantha Hewage

A forest fire erupted on Tuesday night (07) in the upper part of Sarasavigama near the Hanthana Environmental Protection Area, destroying around twelve acres of land, residents of the area said.   

The upper part of Sarasavigama close to Mobree estate had been encircled by the fire and it is believedit may have been lit with the purpose of hunting animals, Hanthana Conservation Organisation general secretary, Amith Senanayake said.   

“The fire which lasted around four hours was doused with the intervention of the police. Though the incident was informed to the special unit in the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) and the Disaster Management Unit, a proper response was not received,” Mr.Senanayaka further added.   

He also said that Hanthana which is known as an environmental protection area, is set on fire by certain parties with the purpose of selling lands and once the lands become barren, the aforesaid parties are able to get the legal rights of selling these lands from the government.   

The fire had been doused by the police and the residents of the area.