Amaraweera launches programme to plant 10,000 Kumbuk trees to mark Army’s anniversary

By Ifham Nizam

Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera launched a programme to plant 10,000 Kumbuk saplings to mark the 72nd anniversary of the Army on Sunday. He said he believed that for the first time, with the full intervention of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the Army, the Special Task Force as well as the Police had extended their support for enforcing the law against those who destroyed the environment of the country.”I believe this may be the first time such a step has been taken to protect the environment. Symbolizing that collaboration, I declare that we are implementing this “10-pronged” planting programme.He also expressed his gratitude to all personnel of the Army and the war heroes for organising the event in a beautiful and orderly manner.

The programme to plant 10,000 Kumbuk saplings was launched at the Defence Headquarters entrance at Pelawatte, Battaramulla. Environment Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe and several high officers of the Army also participated. Amaraweera said: “We all know the role played by the war heroes of the Army in saving the country from terrorism.  Also, the assistance provided by the Army is not insignificant not only in the event of natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods and landslides but also in the event of a serious road accident. I also do not think that in any other country the army played a significant role like the Army in rescuing the people from this Covid-19 epidemic. It is not second to any in the task. The Army fought a war with a ruthless enemy and overcame the deadliest terror outfit in the world. Now they are fighting with an invisible enemy.

“I take this opportunity to appreciate the national mission of all other security forces and the Police.”