The Implementation of Development Projects in Sri Lanka for a Sustainable Development Administration of Environmental Management:A Study of the Housing Project for Resettlement of People at Wilaththakulam Silawatura in Wilpattuwa Conservation

Abstract

Sri Lanka is one of the countries which have been subjected to many serious socio–economic problems. During the last 50 years the country has changed beyond recognition. In a fast changing world it is inevitable. The main objective of this research is to pin point the effects on environment due to short and long term development projects. It is intendeded to highlight the adverse effects on environment due to development projects which affect the equilibrium. For this purpose, Wilpattu Silawatura and Wilaththikulam forest sanctuary was chosen as it is being used as a housing scheme for re-settlement. For this purpose 5 officers from Forest Conservation Department, 5 officers from Central Environmental Authority, 5 officers from Environmental Protection Trust, and 25 people who acquired benefits from the scheme were interviewed. In the collection of primary data interview system and observation were used. To obtain secondary data letters, reports, documents and internet were used. For the collection of overall data detailed systems were used. One of the main things that came into light was that Silawatura and Wilaththikulam forest sanctuary is situated 10 meters away from the border of the Wilpattu National Park. Due to the re-settlement programme the environment has been immensely damaged. Due to felling of large trees a large number of animals have died and most are displaced while water resources have been ruined and environmental climate has been destroyed. This is a great damage to the entire area. As such, when present development goals are being achieved environmental protection and human security should be given first place. Government and private sector development projects should be carefully carried out from the very beginning to the end. Government should take full responsibility for the damage caused. It is necessary to consult all experts on various subjects before the commencement of such projects and then only you can reach a sustainable development