The Kelani Nadee Yathra
A journey to raise awareness on the adversities of climate change,
which began last week, is currently in progress and is due to conclude
on August 29.
Organized by eco friendly Volunteers, 21 young nature enthusiasts,
between the ages of 18-20 began the journey for climate justice from
Nallathanniye on 'Sripada' (Adam's Peak) and on their way towards
Kelaniya, trekking, floating and cycling along the Kelani river.
The Provincial Environment Ministry of the Western Province, UN
Volunteers and the Sri Lanka Scout Association jointly supports the
endeavour. Another significant feature of the 'Kelani Nadee Yathra' is
the presence of rehabilitated ex-LTTE military cadres who are now
enjoying their lives with their families.
Extending the fullest support for the venture is Western Province
Minister of Environment Udaya Gammanpila. "The community project will
help change the attitudes towards climate change and its effects on
nature at grassroots level," he said. Many people are unaware that
climate change is one of the main reasons for agricultural, health and
climatic problems we face, according to Minister Gammanpila said.
Highlighting the importance of choosing Kelani river minister Gammanpila
said that with the rise in sea water levels more salt water tend to flow
inland thus making the water of the river unusable. "Extracting river
sand despite the ban and limitations imposed on the trade has aggravated
the situation," he added.
The salt water has caused irreparable damages to arable lands at
certain locations along the Kelani river and the Eco Friendly Volunteers
(Eco-V) are making a strong effort to reach their goals through this
public awareness campaign, spearheaded by President of Eco-V, Kanchana
Weerakoon.
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