Pavithra’s gazette on Wedithalathive Nature Reserve suspended by SC

By Lakmal Sooriyagoda 
The Supreme Court yesterday issued an interim order staying the operation of the Extraordinary Gazette issued by Wildlife Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi changing the boundaries of the Wedithalathive Nature Reserve for an aquaculture project.
The Supreme Court made this order pursuant to two Fundamental Rights petitions filed by Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka and Environment Foundation. This interim order will be effective until the final determination of this application.
The Supreme Court three-judge-bench comprising Justices Preethi Padman Surasena, Shiran Gooneratne and Achala Wengappuli granted leave to proceed with these two applications and the matters for argument on November 12. 
The petitioners are challenging the unlawful acts of the Minister of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation by Extraordinary Gazette bearing No. 2383/05 and dated 6th May 2024. 
The Petitioner stated that this Gazette issued by the subject Minister noted that the area specified in the appendix of the gazette will no longer be designated as part of the Wedithalathive Nature Reserve.