April 30, Colombo (LNW): A high-level meeting convened yesterday (29) at the Presidential Secretariat focused on accelerating plans to create a specialised body tasked with safeguarding and rehabilitating the Central Highlands. The discussion was chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
During the session, the President underscored the pressing need for decisive action to restore the region, which has suffered extensive environmental degradation after a series of landslides linked to the recent Cyclone Ditwah. Officials highlighted that the scale of destruction has exposed long-standing vulnerabilities in the highland ecosystem.
In response, the government has resolved to establish a dedicated authority with a clear mandate to oversee conservation efforts in the upper catchment areas. This institution will also be responsible for tackling broader environmental concerns while ensuring the long-term protection of the Central Highlands.
The meeting included a comprehensive review of progress made so far, particularly in relation to drafting the necessary legal framework. Participants presented a range of proposals and technical insights aimed at strengthening the proposed authority’s structure and effectiveness.
After considering these recommendations, the President directed relevant agencies to move swiftly in implementing the next steps, signalling an urgency to transition from planning to action.
Once operational, the new authority is expected to play a central role in restoring degraded landscapes and coordinating efforts across multiple sectors. Its responsibilities will extend beyond conservation to encompass critical national priorities such as water and food security, disaster preparedness, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. It is also anticipated to contribute to more systematic valuation and management of the country’s natural resources.