Colombo Coastline Set for Major Cleanup: 87 Unauthorized Structures Slated for Removal

The Ministry of Environment has announced plans to remove 87 unauthorized structures identified along the Colombo coastal belt, specifically from Bambalapitiya to Wellawatte. Environment Minister Dr. Dhammika Patabendi stated that the operation, overseen by the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management, is scheduled to commence within this month. The initiative aims to clear the coastline, which has been divided into five zones requiring protection and conservation measures. Legal advice has been secured from the Attorney General for the removal process, with authorities also planning to redevelop the cleared areas into an attractive tourist destination. Some of the identified structures in a specific section of the coast were reportedly linked to individuals involved in alleged criminal activities.