Mining for disaster

MECHANICAL mining rights are being considered on the flood-prone Kalu Ganga south of Colombo for the South African gem trading company, Colombo Sapphire Ltd. According to Panos Features, this will increase the threat of floods as dredging by CSL might weaken the banks and cause them to collapse.

Besides, siltation would endanger the flora and fauna of the region and adversely affect the growth of fish and other life forms.