The Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) has called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to immediately halt Sri Lanka Cricket’s proposed Jaffna International Stadium project on Mandaitivu Island, raising serious concerns over environmental damage and legal violations.
In a formal appeal, the conservation body warned that the proposed construction threatens fragile ecosystems, flood-retention zones, and the livelihoods of local communities living in the area.
Concerns Over Environmental Law Violations
According to the WNPS, the proposed stadium site falls within an environmentally sensitive zone that plays a vital role in natural flood control and biodiversity protection. The organisation stated that proceeding with large-scale construction without proper environmental clearance would violate Sri Lanka’s existing environmental laws and regulations.
The society emphasised that any development in such areas must undergo a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before approval, something it claims has not been adequately addressed.
Threat to Fragile Ecosystems
Mandaitivu Island is known for its delicate coastal habitats, including wetlands and natural drainage systems that help mitigate flooding in surrounding areas. Environmentalists warn that altering this landscape could lead to long-term ecological damage, increased flood risk, and loss of wildlife habitats.
The WNPS also highlighted that once such ecosystems are disrupted, restoration becomes extremely difficult and costly.
Impact on Local Communities
Beyond environmental risks, the organisation raised concerns about the project’s impact on local residents. The area supports fishing communities and other livelihoods that depend on the natural environment. Large-scale development, they argue, could disrupt daily life, access to resources, and long-standing community structures.
The society stressed that development projects should prioritise both environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
Call for Sustainable Planning
While acknowledging the importance of sports infrastructure development, the WNPS urged authorities to explore alternative locations that do not pose environmental risks. The organisation stated that national development goals should align with conservation principles and long-term sustainability.
Awaiting Government Response
The appeal places the matter directly before President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, calling for immediate intervention to prevent irreversible environmental harm. As of now, no official response has been issued regarding the future of the proposed stadium project.
The issue has sparked broader debate on balancing infrastructure development with environmental protection, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions of Sri Lanka.
