Limestone quarries around Victoria Reservoir, removed

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau says that it had removed all limestone quarries within 100 meters of Victoria Reservoir overflow.

Its chairman, Anura Walpola, said that licenses for three large-scale limestone quarries within 100 meters of Victoria Reservoir and for minor excavations have been suspended.

The move was prompted by the recent tremors experienced in the areas close to the Victoria Reservoir, which has been confirmed to have originated from a limestone quarry in the area.

He further said that the Ministry of Environment had appointed a committee consisting of authorities and professionals to look into the causes of the recent tremors in the area.