The fisherfolk in the North-Western coastline in Sri Lanka in particular are facing a recurring threat: sea erosion in addition to other issues they have to contend with. Fishermen of Karukupane, Iranawila and Thoduwawa constantly complain that they have been severely affected by the sea erosion which is incessantly occurring in the area.
Many families in the area have lost their houses, business establishments including several prawn hatcheries as a result of their lands being inundated by sea water.
Puttalam District MP Ajith Gihan Fernando recently visited the Karukupane area and heeded the grievances of the fishermen and took measures to minimise the threat caused by severe coastal erosion by placing sandbags as a quick measure to prevent houses and the road in the area from being washed away by sea water.
He said that all possible measures will be taken to provide a lasting solution to this pressing issue under the National People’s Power (NPP) Government.