By: Staff Writer
May 02, Colombo (LNW): UNESCO site faces ecological crisis as illegal excavation continues near ancient fortress Sigiriya, the iconic ancient rock fortress nestled in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, has earned global acclaim as the world’s most welcoming city for 2025, according to Booking.com.
However, this internationally celebrated heritage site now faces a mounting ecological threat: illegal gravel mining within its protected sanctuary.
This historic marvel, constructed in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, is not only a symbol of Sri Lanka’s architectural and engineering brilliance but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Towering over the surrounding jungle, Sigiriya offers breathtaking views and cultural significance that attracts visitors from around the globe. Yet, the serenity of this national treasure is now being shattered by unchecked mining activity.
The Organisation for the Protection of Sigiriya has raised the alarm over the destructive gravel excavation taking place within the sanctuary.
According to its president, Lionel Gunasekara, massive deforestation and deep excavation have already scarred the landscape, all occurring dangerously close to the Department of Wildlife Conservation’s own office. “This destruction has been ongoing for far too long,” Gunasekara lamented. “Despite repeated complaints, the authorities have done nothing.”
Satellite imagery has confirmed illegal activity, a senior wildlife official admitted, revealing that a group of racketeers had been operating without departmental approval. However, there remains uncertainty about who granted these individuals access in the first place.
S.S. Malinda, the Officer in Charge of the Sigiriya Wildlife Conservation Office, stated that his department had issued no permits for such mining operations. “I have not yet identified the individuals responsible, but we will investigate and initiate legal action,” he promised.
Gunasekara, a veteran in the tourism industry since the 1970s, emphasized the absurdity of the situation. “People aren’t allowed to dig toilet pits here due to archaeological laws—so how is large-scale gravel mining happening unchecked?” he questioned.
He has vowed to escalate the issue at the next District Development Committee meeting, calling on both the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Department of Archaeology to disclose who authorized the destruction.
With Sigiriya gaining global recognition for its hospitality and historical significance, conservationists warn that immediate intervention is critical to protect its fragile ecosystem and cultural integrity. Without urgent action, Sri Lanka risks losing not only a treasured heritage site but also the trust of a global community that values its preservation.
Will the voices of Sigiriya’s protectors finally be heard before it’s too late?
