A proposal by the Wildlife Conservation Department to take possession of a coastline in Jaffna has raised concerns among the area’s community.
The department has written to the divisional secretary of Sanganai that the stretch between Araly and Ponnali belonged to it, it is claimed.
It is 1 ½ km wide and 10 km long.
Former provincial councilor S. Kugadas has told the media that people depend on this coast area for fishing, agriculture and it even has a cemetery and playgrounds.
However, the official in charge of the area’s land matters said no decision has been taken yet to handover the land to wildlife authorities and that the ex-councilor has misunderstood the situation.
Jaffna district secretary Ambalavanar Sivabalasundaran said he was seeking public opinion, and that he would do nothing against their wishes.
