🌊 Government Targets Coastal Protection & Environmental Delivery in 2027 Budget Planning

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake instructed officials to enforce strict legal action against unauthorized construction along Northern and Eastern coastlines as part of the Environment Ministry's 2027 pre-Budget review. Key updates and strategic directives include: • Coastal & Marine Management: A new steering committee will monitor coastal development, while an expert panel will address severe erosion at Oluvil. The "Clean Sri Lanka" program will expand via the Clean Coastline Project and coastal recreation parks. • Budget Execution: The ministry reviewed progress on its Rs. 19,719 million allocation for 2026 across key agencies, including the Central Environmental Authority, Department of Wildlife Conservation, and Marine Environment Protection Authority. Officials were ordered to fully utilize remaining funds by year-end. • Human-Elephant Conflict: Delays in mitigating human-elephant conflict were flagged as direct threats to lives. The President directed that elephant fence placement prioritize human safety over rigid wildlife zone demarcation. • Sustainability & Investment: Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi highlighted a national carbon emissions policy in development to unlock green investment opportunities. • Foreign Project Coordination: A permanent committee will oversee externally funded projects to eliminate ministry overlaps and enhance planning efficiency.