Abstract:
Sri Lanka is one of the countries which have been subjected to many serious socio–economic
problems. During the last 50 years the country has changed beyond recognition. In a fast
changing world it is inevitable. The main objective of this research is to pin point the effects
on environment due to short and long term development projects. It is intendeded to highlight
the adverse effects on environment due to development projects which affect the equilibrium.
For this purpose, Wilpattu Silawatura and Wilaththikulam forest sanctuary was chosen as it is
being used as a housing scheme for re-settlement. For this purpose 5 officers from Forest
Conservation Department, 5 officers from Central Environmental Authority, 5 officers from
Environmental Protection Trust, and 25 people who acquired benefits from the scheme were
interviewed. In the collection of primary data interview system and observation were used. To
obtain secondary data letters, reports, documents and internet were used. For the collection of
overall data detailed systems were used. One of the main things that came into light was that
Silawatura and Wilaththikulam forest sanctuary is situated 10 meters away from the border of
the Wilpattu National Park. Due to the re-settlement programme the environment has been
immensely damaged. Due to felling of large trees a large number of animals have died and
most are displaced while water resources have been ruined and environmental climate has been
destroyed. This is a great damage to the entire area. As such, when present development goals
are being achieved environmental protection and human security should be given first place.
Government and private sector development projects should be carefully carried out from the
very beginning to the end. Government should take full responsibility for the damage caused.
It is necessary to consult all experts on various subjects before the commencement of such
projects and then only you can reach a sustainable development
