Large scale gravel racket uncovered in Mullaitivu

Colombo (News 1st): A large scale gravel racket violating the terms and conditions of licenses issued for mining was reported from Kokavil, Mullaitivu today (March 23). Locals charge that the racket has been continuously taking place over the past years, and has adversely affected the environment. When News 1st inquired from the workers at the mine, they confirmed that the mining is being carried out violating the terms and conditions of the license. Although the license is issued by the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, this is the manner in which the continuous mining of gravel has affected the area in Mullaitivu. Over 100 acres of forest reserves have also been destroyed by this ongoing gravel racket. Chairman of the Pudukuirippu Pradeshiya Sabha Premanth noted that although discussions were held with the District Coordinating Committee, the full ownership of the land has not been given to the Pradeshiya Sabha yet. He added that they are hoping to appoint a committee to look into this matter.