CCD demolishes unauthorised structures in Mirissa

By Divya Thotawatte

The Coast Conservation Department (CCD) yesterday demolished all unauthorised structures along the Mirissa beach.

 “We identified 20 illegal structures along the beach of Mirissa. Among them were cafés, restaurants and even swimming pools,” said CCD Director General Prabath Chandrakeerthi who added that the demolishing exercises began yesterday.

“Mirissa is a tourist area under development. Those who want to engage in business activities must maintain a 10-meter step back from the permanent vegetation line. These establishments have been constructed on the beach, which harms the coastal line of the area. We are only demolishing establishments in a 5-meter line. Those that remain would be unharmed by us,” Chandrakeerthi added.

Chandrakeerthi told Daily FT that the CCD was able to demolish the illegal structures on the beach without having to face any protests or complaints from the people involved in the illegal establishments. 

President Maithripala Sirisena, who is also the Environment Minister, ordered the CCD to remove the identified illegal structures after the CCD temporarily suspended their decision of removing them due to the involvement of two powerful ministers.

The demolition follows an ugly incident last month where a group of tourists were attacked when they patronised an authorised bar and café in Mirissa.