Sri Lanka to Take Legal Action Against Those Responsible for Forest Fires

The Department of Forest Conservation has announced that legal action will be taken against individuals found responsible for deliberately setting forest fires as the number of incidents continues to rise across Sri Lanka.

Director General of Forest Conservation Chandima Panakumbura said the highest number of forest fire incidents this year has been reported from the Badulla, Monaragala, and Batticaloa districts.

He urged members of the public to assist authorities by reporting anyone suspected of intentionally starting forest fires through the department’s 1995 hotline.

According to the Director General, the Department of Forest Conservation is also taking preventive measures by establishing fire barriers in vulnerable forest areas to help contain the spread of wildfires and minimise damage to natural ecosystems.

He further stated that additional funding has been allocated through this year’s National Budget to strengthen forest protection initiatives and improve fire prevention efforts across the country.

Forest officials have appealed to the public to act responsibly, avoid activities that could trigger fires, and cooperate with authorities in protecting Sri Lanka’s forests and wildlife habitats during the dry season.

Read more articles like this on www.srilankanpost.com