Land ownership disputes, unauthorized developments, and coastal encroachments have remained major challenges in the Eastern Province, affecting tourism, investment, environmental protection, and public administration. In response, the government has approved a series of measures aimed at strengthening oversight and enforcement.
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the appointment of a special committee to address illegal land encroachments, unauthorized coastal developments, and other land-related issues in the Eastern Province.
The decision was announced following the Cabinet meeting held on Monday (22).
New Committee to Lead Land Protection Efforts
According to Cabinet decisions, the committee will operate under the title “Protecting Eastern Province Lands.”
The committee will be chaired by former Southern Province Land Commissioner and current Southern Province Local Government Commissioner Senaka Palliyaguruge.
Representatives from relevant government institutions will also serve on the committee.
Authorities expect the body to coordinate efforts to address long-standing land disputes and strengthen the management of state-owned lands in the province.
Concerns Over Illegal Land Acquisitions
The government noted that the Eastern Province has faced political, economic, and administrative challenges arising from illegal land acquisitions, misuse of state power, and unauthorized construction activities along the coastline.
According to Cabinet, these activities have contributed to environmental damage, increased coastal erosion, and created obstacles to development initiatives.
Authorities also stated that some of these issues have implications for national security and long-term land management.
Special Police Unit Approved
As part of the government’s response, Cabinet has approved the establishment of a special police unit headed by a Deputy Inspector General (DIG).
Security forces will be granted authority to prevent unauthorized land acquisitions and land reclamation activities carried out through political influence or other unlawful means.
The move is intended to strengthen enforcement and improve coordination among agencies responsible for land administration.
Focus on State Land Utilisation
Cabinet also approved the recovery of government lands allocated by the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority more than five years ago where no development projects have been implemented.
Under the approved programme, such lands will be transferred to Divisional Secretaries and considered for public development projects.
The measure is expected to improve the utilisation of state-owned land assets while supporting future development activities.
Tourism and Coastal Protection Plans
The government has also approved the preparation of a comprehensive tourism development plan for the Eastern coastline.
According to Cabinet decisions, the plan will seek to balance tourism development with the protection of coastal ecosystems.
In addition, authorities plan to introduce a mechanism to ensure that government officials enforce regulations impartially and transparently in relation to hotels and tourism-related developments along the eastern coast.
Why It Matters?
The Eastern Province is home to some of the country’s most valuable tourism, fisheries, and coastal assets.
For investors, tourism operators, and local communities, clear land ownership, consistent law enforcement, and sustainable development policies remain critical for long-term growth.
The latest measures signal a broader effort to strengthen land governance, protect natural resources, and support future economic development in the region.
Last modified: June 24, 2026
