Task force to tackle algae problem in Diyawanna Oya

By Ifham Nizam

A Cabinet paper will be presented this week to appoint a task force to fight the unusual algae growth in the Diyawanna Oya.

The Speaker last week instructed Environment Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, to take immediate appropriate action to prevent the growth of the algae.

The relevant Cabinet memorandum has been finalised and Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera is scheduled to present it at the next Cabinet meeting.

Dr. Jasinghe yesterday said that such algae growth could be due to the neglect of sustainable development policies in the implementation of the Sri Jayewardenepura development plans.

He said that a discussion would be held at the Ministry next Tuesday with several experts who could meet the challenge.

It has been confirmed that the discolouration of the water around the Diyawanna Oya in Parliament is due to an algae bloom or algae growth.

Experts have pointed out that the algae growth could lead to a strong odour in the surrounding environment.