A fire that broke out in the Anawilundawa Ramsar Sanctuary in Puttalam District continues to spread despite intensive containment efforts involving wildlife officials, local authorities, and residents.
A fire that began on Wednesday in the Maiyiyawa Wewa Pitiyā area of the Anawilundawa Ramsar Sanctuary has prompted a coordinated response from multiple government agencies and local communities. According to the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the blaze has already affected approximately seven acres of the sanctuary, a wetland area of significant ecological value.
Containment efforts have mobilized wildlife officers alongside representatives from the Chilaw Divisional Secretariat, Chilaw Pradeshiya Sabha, Arachchikattuwa Divisional Secretariat, Arachchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabha, and the Chilaw Fire Unit. Response teams have deployed water bowsers and tractors, while residents from nearby villages including Maiyiyawa and Bogahawetiya have volunteered to assist in suppression activities. Fire belts have been cut and land cleared using backhoe machinery as preventative measures.
However, progress has been hampered by challenging environmental conditions. Strong winds and elevated temperatures have worked against containment efforts, with the fire continuing to spread in the direction of prevailing wind patterns. Authorities noted that dry weather conditions have further complicated the operation. While officials reported bringing one affected area under full control, the fire remains active in other sections of the sanctuary.
Authorities have underscored the ecological importance of protecting the Ramsar Sanctuary, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance. Firefighting operations are proceeding without interruption as officials and volunteers work to prevent further expansion of the blaze.
