Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi has ordered a temporary halt to construction work on a gabion wall at the Wahatiyagoda coastal area in Pamunugama, Wattala, pending an investigation into whether the structure has extended beyond approved boundaries.
The Minister carried out an inspection of the site on Saturday (12), accompanied by the Director General of the Coast Conservation Department and other officials.
During the inspection, it was observed that parts of the gabion wall, constructed to prevent coastal erosion, had allegedly extended beyond the limits stipulated by the Coast Conservation Department and covered areas belonging to the beach.
The Minister instructed officials to suspend further construction until further notice and conduct a formal investigation into the approvals granted, the permitted boundaries and the manner in which the work had been carried out.
Authorities are also expected to examine whether the relevant state officials had properly discharged their duties and responsibilities in connection with the project.
Meanwhile, the Minister also inspected a house damaged by strong sea waves at Thaldiyawatta in Dikkowita, Wattala, amid the prevailing active monsoon conditions.
Officials were instructed to carry out technical assessments of coastal erosion in the area and identify both immediate and long-term measures to protect residents and property from further damage.
The Minister stressed the need for development and coastal protection activities within the coastal zone to comply with relevant laws, regulations and technical recommendations. (Newswire)
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