Sri Lanka Environment Minister directs state institutions in Sri Lanka to work together for the exploration of valuable land resources

Mar 24, Colombo – Mahinda Amaraweera (Minister of Environment) stated that the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and Lanka Mineral Sands Ltd had failed to obtain the correct results from Sri Lanka’s land resources. He instructed to speed up the ongoing exploration activities to locate places of value within the island.

Minister Amaraweera, in a conversation with officials from the two state institutions, stated that even though the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau had obtained exploration permits for certain companies and individuals, the exploration activities are not being done properly and efficiently. This will result in a significant loss of foreign exchange for the country, he said.

Since some individuals and companies obtained exploration licenses, about 10 years have passed. They do not conduct proper and efficient exploration. The country loses a lot of foreign currency as a result. We know it was difficult for the government find $ 08 million to purchase gas from a ship that recently arrived in our country. The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and Lanka Mineral Sands were not able to benefit from a large number valuable land resources. He said that if you can’t make even a small amount of cash, such as $ 08-$ 10 million, then there is a problem.

Further, the Minister stated the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and Lanka Mineral Sands should do joint exploration work efficiently and extensively. He directed that valuable land resources be identified and mapped, and that no settlements or buildings be built in these areas.

There are many places that have valuable land resources. They cannot be used correctly. Because the people have been resettled there without considering the land resources. They cannot be expelled. They cannot also take advantage of the valuable resources found within the earth’s interior. Some areas have seen large buildings built. It would be beneficial if environmental assessment reports included information about the valuable geological resources found within the earth’s interior. These actions have led to our country becoming a beggar but a treasure.

He stated that land exploration should be expedited, and that the two agencies should collaborate.

The Minister directed that, once valuable land resources have been identified, these areas should be mapped and protected. No settlement or illegal occupation should take place in these areas.

Anil Jasinghe Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, and a group of officers were present at the occasion.