Urban Development, Construction, and Housing Minister Anura Karunatilaka emphasized that creating a prosperous country extends beyond economic and financial wealth to encompass cultural, ideological, and behavioral prosperity.

The Minister conveyed this message today (26th) at the launch of the pilot program aimed at preventing pollution of Colombo’s main canal systems, an initiative led by the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation.

He highlighted that approximately 7,000 metric tons of solid waste are discharged into the environment daily, with around 20 tons entering reservoirs and other water bodies. This waste has caused blockages in canal outlets, contributing significantly to the flooding that displaced over 40,000 families in the Colombo area during the 2021 floods.

The awareness campaign focuses on transforming public attitudes and behaviors to prevent canal pollution—a key factor in Colombo’s flooding problems. This program is conducted under the guidance of the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing and is overseen by the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation.

Key components of the project include developing a management plan to restore water quality in the St. Sebastian’s Canal system in northern Colombo, implementing solid waste dumping prevention measures in the Dematagoda, Mahawatta, and Serpentine canal systems, and conducting cleaning and maintenance of water bodies and waterways across the Western Province.

During the event, participants engaged in discussions with the Minister, chairpersons, and senior officials, stressing that changing individual mindsets must evolve into a collective effort within families, communities, and the nation to ensure the program’s sustainable progress.

Flooding during heavy rains in Colombo and its surrounding urban areas primarily stems from pollution in the canal systems. This pollution is largely due to the widespread dumping of solid waste, such as plastic and polythene, which obstructs the natural flow of rainwater through the canals. Additionally, pollution arises from household wastewater, effluents from multi-story buildings, industrial discharge, and water runoff from urban agricultural activities.

At the event, Dr. Ajith Gunawardena of the Central Environmental Authority and D.K.M.P. Perera, Director of the Police Environmental Protection Division, provided clarifications on the legal frameworks designed to prevent canal pollution.

The gathering included notable attendees such as State Minister of Public Security and Legal Affairs Hon. Sunil Watagala, Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation Chairman Engineer Saman Sri Seneviratne, General Manager Engineer E.H. Thusari, alongside mayors, divisional secretaries, Grama Niladharis, and other government officials.