The Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Sri Lanka has raised concerns over reported drilling and sand mining activities around Mannar Island in connection with fuel and gas exploration.
In a statement, the Conference said it had received information about drilling activities being carried out in the area and expressed concern over the environmental damage allegedly caused by sand mining on Mannar Island.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference said the activities have caused concern among area residents, while stressing that any projects undertaken for economic development should be carried out following proper environmental assessments and with transparency.
It also called for the views of the local community to be properly obtained before any development activities are initiated.
The Conference emphasised that such projects should not negatively affect the livelihoods of the fishing community or the island’s water resources, and that the rights and dignity of the people must be safeguarded.
The issue was discussed during the plenary session of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Sri Lanka held from August 18 to 20.