More of Puttalam’s mangrove forests will now be protected, helping to keep the coast healthy for people and wildlife.
Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi signed a gazette on Monday (27) to protect the eight mangrove forest areas.
The decision also supports the government’s “Give Space for Mangroves to Breathe” program.
Why Mangroves Matter
Mangroves do much more than grow along the coast. They also help stop the sea from washing away the shoreline.
At the same time, they provide a safe place for fish, crabs, and other sea life to breed. Because of this, many fishing communities depend on healthy mangrove forests.
The Eight Protected Areas
The protected areas are:
- Thilliyadiya
- Sammattawadiya
- Muthalapali
- Kudawa
- Kumbutu Kuliyawa
- Karambe
- Kandakuliya
- Mandala Kudawa
Together, they cover 176.67 hectares.
Part of a Bigger Plan
The government also announced the new protection close to International Mangrove Ecosystem Conservation Day, held every year on 26 July.
Officials say the programme will protect more mangrove forests while also helping people understand why these forests are important.
Last year, the government protected another 67 hectares of mangrove forests in the Puttalam and Chilaw areas.
There are about 12,500 hectares of mangrove forests across the country. Most of them grow around the lagoons and river mouths in Puttalam.
These forests support fish, crabs and birds. They also help protect the coastline during storms. As a result, coastal communities benefit from healthier fishing grounds.
So, protecting more mangrove forests today helps protect nature and supports the people who depend on it.
Last modified: July 28, 2026
