Over 500 Kumbuk Trees Destroyed by Fire Near Wilpattu; Investigation Underway

Over 500 Kumbuk trees have reportedly been destroyed by fire near the boundary of the Wilpattu National Park, specifically in the Nelumwewa area of Vanathavilluwa. Environmentalists allege the destruction was a deliberate act of arson, occurring while a crucial embankment supporting local agriculture was undergoing repairs. In response, the Ministry of Environment has ordered an immediate and impartial investigation into the incident, following instructions from Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody. Authorities are treating the destruction of these trees, vital for protecting water sources in a sensitive ecosystem, as a significant environmental threat.