Gem mining operation in Balangoda disrupting locals

COLOMBO (News 1st); A large-scale gem mining operation is currently afflicting the residents of Galgaaniaarawa in Balangoda.

The people of Galgaaniaaraawa say a gem mine has been operating in the area in the last 8 months.

They further stated that although mining had been taking place on private land initially, it has now been expanded to include land in a nearby reserve.

Locals say they have been unable to use a road near the gem mine that runs from Muththettuwa to Budunwela.

A group of locals also visited the site of the mine on Sunday (09).

The locals allege that what the miners are attempting to do is to engage in mining on land belonging to a reserve and also by cutting across a river flowing to Kosgama, which would break the wall of sand, which will result in mud flowing to the village.

Speaking further, the locals also stated that the people in Kosgama currently don't have water to drink, bathe or use for their purposes and they have been affected for 8 months so far.

"If a villager enters the forest to cut some wood they would be arrested and then charged in court. Are they blind to what is happening here? If authorities don't provide a solution to this problem, we will stage a protest here along with the people of Kosgama and then halt these operations," a local stated.