Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Cabinet establishes committees to oversee Gregory Lake restoration project
Sri Lanka's Cabinet has approved the formation of two committees tasked with coordinating efforts to restore Gregory Lake, a key water body in the central highlands. The move aims to address environmental and management challenges facing the historic lake.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Cabinet decision paves the way for a structured approach to addressing decades of degradation at Gregory Lake, which serves as an important freshwater resource and tourist attraction in Nuwara Eliya district.
The two committees will work in tandem to manage different aspects of the restoration initiative, encompassing environmental rehabilitation and administrative oversight. The committees are expected to develop comprehensive strategies for addressing pollution, siltation, and infrastructure challenges that have affected the lake's condition.
Gregory Lake, constructed during the British colonial period, has faced mounting environmental pressures in recent years due to upstream development and inadequate watershed management. The restoration project is intended to improve water quality, protect biodiversity, and enhance the lake's recreational and economic value for surrounding communities.
The Cabinet approval marks a significant step in translating restoration plans into concrete action. Implementation timelines and budget allocations for the project are expected to be finalized as the committees commence their work.
The initiative comes amid broader efforts across Sri Lanka to rehabilitate critical water bodies and strengthen environmental management in the central highlands region.