Probe to ensure balance between Wilpattu Park and IDP resettlement

President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday said issues concerning the Wilpattu National Park and the resettlement of people were being reviewed and stressed the need for a proper balance.

“While those displaced need to be provided with land to be resettled, there should not be any deforestation of any conserved forest in the country,” the President said. 

Sirisena said that he had last week ordered the immediate halt of all deforestation until the matter was fully investigated and proper remedial measures were found.

The President said the resettlement of the displaced people in the Wilpattu forest was done based on the directives issued by the former Government.