In recent years, a series of proposed mineral extraction projects along this fragile stretch, particularly near Alampil Beach in Mullaitivu district, has triggered alarm among environmentalists, local residents, and civil society.
In his letter, Gandhi urged the government to cancel the tenders issued for offshore mining blocks, emphasising the need for rigorous scientific assessments of their environmental and socio-economic impact.
Sources indicate that extensive consultations have been conducted at various levels, involving chief secretaries, chief ministers, mining associations, state-owned enterprises, and both large- and small-scale mining companies.
A deal signed in 2008 with the previous US-backed government, but it came to a standstill after a Taliban-led attack.
By Maliha Safi
A Chinese delegation...
River meetings – or 'Nodi Boithoks' – empowered under-threat and overlooked river communities in Bangladesh to have a say in critical conversations about their...
The UN appeal comes at a moment when humanitarian funding is already stretched by multiple crises. While CERF has provided rapid support, broader donor commitments remain insufficient relative to the scale of projected need.
South Asia’s lead crisis is not inevitable. Experience elsewhere demonstrates that decisive regulation, industrial formalisation and community-level interventions can sharply reduce exposure.
The UN appeal comes at a moment when humanitarian funding is already stretched by multiple crises. While CERF has provided rapid support, broader donor commitments remain insufficient relative to the scale of projected need.