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This petition is served on behalf of the
people of Sri Lanka, taking into consideration environmental and social factors
relevant to them. Nevertheless we would like to emphasize that we do focus on
the environmental and social impact of this project on India , the Asian region
and elsewhere as well.
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All things in this world are connected. Nothing
exists as a separate entity. All things, not just the biotic but the biotic as
well, are connected in extremely complex ways. Although Sri Lanka and India are
two separate countries, they lie on the same geological plate. All creatures big
and small, wild and wonderful, in these two countries may live on separate
territories, but they are, each and every one of them, important to the entire
world. There are no identifiable boundaries when we talk about the existence and
sustainability of this earth. Acts that willfully harm the environment are
nothing but violation of the human rights of those who have for ages adapted
their lives and lifestyles to specific environmental conditions.
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Peoples
Memorandum
[in Tamil] -
Tamil Font |
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NrJ rKj;jpu jpl;lj;jpw;F vjpuhd Njrpa mikg;G
NrJ rKj;jpu jpl;lj;jpw;F vjpuhd kD
#oy; kw;Wk; r%f fhuzpfis fUj;jpw; nfhz;L ,yq;if kf;fSf;fhf ,k;kD
njhLf;fg;gLfpd;wJ. vdpDk; ,k; kD njhLf;fpd;w NghJ ,e;jpa> Mrpa tya
ehLfSf;F kl;Lkd;wp mjw;F mg;ghYk; Vw;gLfpd;w #oy; kw;Wk; r%f jhf;fq;fs;
gw;wpAk; ehk; tpNrlkhf fUj;jpw;nfhs;fpd;Nwhk;.
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cyfpYs;s midj;Jk; xd;wpnyhd;W jq;fpAs;sd. jdpj;jdpahf gpupj;J
vLf;ff;$bathW vJTkpy;iy. cyfpd; capUs;s capuw;w midj;J $WfSk;
xd;wpnyhd;W rpf;fy; tha;e;j Kiwapy; gpz;zpg;gpize;Js;sd. ,yq;ifAk; ,e;jpahTk;
ntt;NtW ehLfshf ,Ug;gpDk; ,uz;Lk; xNu jsj;jpy; mikag;ngw;Ws;sd. mq;F
,U ehl;bw;Fk; cupj;jhd capupdq;fs; tho;e;jhYk; mit KO cyfpw;Fk;
cupj;jhd ngWkjp tha;e;j capupdq;fshFk;. cyfpd; epiyg;igg; gw;wp NgRk;
NghJ mjw;F vt;tpj vy;iyAkpy;iy. njupe;J nfhz;Nl nra;fpd;w #oy; mopTfs;
vd;gJ> fhyhfhykhf epiyj;J epw;fpd;w #oy; epiyikfspd; fPo; ,iaghf;fk;
mile;J tho;fpd;w capupdq;fspd; cupikfis kdpjhgpkhdkw;w Kiwapy;
kPWtjhFk;. mt;thNw cyfpd; epiyg;gpw;F ghupa Nritia nra;fpd;w czuKbahj>
fl;Gydhfhj capupdq;fs; ngUkstpy; ,jdhy; nfhd;W Ftpf;fg;gLk;. |
NrJ rKj;jpu jpl;lk; vd;gJ ,yq;if ,e;jpa vy;iyapy; cUthf;fg;gLfpd;w ghupa
mgptpUj;jpj; jpl;lkhFk;. mJ ,e;jpa murhq;fj;jpdhy; Ra tpUg;gpd; ngaupy;
cUthf;fg;gl;l XH jpl;lkhFk;. ,yq;if kl;Lkd;wp KO cyf ehLfspdJk; ftdj;ij ,j;jpl;lk;
njhlHghf <Hf;fr;nra;a Ntz;ba NjitAs;sJ. ,j;jpl;lk; njhlHghf ,yq;if
murhq;fk; murpay; eyid fUj;jpw; nfhz;L nraw;gLk; mNj Neuk; ,e;jpa muR
tpahghuk; kw;Wk; Njrpa ghJfhg;G Njitia mbg;gilahf nfhz;L jkJ Nehf;fj;ij
epiwNtw;wpf;nfhs;s eltbf;iffis Nkw;nfhz;L tUfpwJ. ,q;F ngUk;ghyhd ,e;jpa
kf;fs; jkJ vjpHg;ig ntspf;fhl;lKbahky; jtpj;Jf;nfhz;bUf;Fk; mNj Ntis ,yq;ifapd;
gy;NtW FOf;fs; gy;NtW Nehf;fq;fis mbg;gilahf nfhz;L nksdpfshf my;yJ ,e;jpahtpw;F
Kw;whf vjpHg;G njuptpg;gtHfshf nraw;gl;L tUfpd;whHfs;. ,jdhy; vjpHfhyj;jpy;
kdpjd; cs;spl;l KO #ow; njhFjpANk ghupa jhf;fj;jpw;F cl;gl Ntz;ba epiy
Vw;gLk;.
,e;jpa muR ,j;jpl;lk; njhlHghd #oy; jhf;f kjpg;gPl;bid Nkw;nfhz;Ls;sJ. ,j;jpl;lj;jpd;
jd;ik gupkhzk; vd;gtw;iw mbg;gilahff; nfhz;L Nehf;Fk; NghJ ,k; kjpg;gPl;L
mwpf;ifahdJ jpUg;jpfukhdnjhd;W my;y. vkJ fz;Nzhlj;jpd; mbg;gilapy; ,j;jifa
G+uzj;Jtkw;w mwpf;ifapid rkHg;gpf;f fhuzk; ,j;jpl;lj;jpdhy; Vw;gLfpd;w
mopTfis Ntz;Lnkd;Nw kiwf;Fk; Nehf;fNkahFk;. ,j;jpl;lj;jpw;fhd tuyhW 144
Mz;L fhykhFk;. ,j;jpl;lj;jpdhy; #oYf;F kw;Wk; r%fj;jpw;F Vw;gLk; ghupa
jhf;fj;jpd; fhuzkhfNt ,j;jpl;lkhdJ gy Mz;Lfhykhf jhkjkile;jJ. mjd;
mbg;gilapy; Vw;gLj;jpa gy;NtW jpl;l Kaw;rpfspd; gpd; ,J ,d;W ,e;jpa ,yq;if
flw;gug;G
vy;iyapy; epHkhzpf;fg;gLfpd;wJ.
,j;jpl;lk; ,e;J rKj;jpuj;jpy; ,e;jpa ,yq;if flw;gug;G vy;iyapy; ,yq;iff;F
mz;ikapy; cUthf;fg;gLfpd;wJ. mjdhy; mJ ,yq;ifapd; #oy;> r%f> nghUshjhu
kw;Wk; fyhr;rhu tplaq;fspy; NeubahfNt jhf;fj;ij Vw;gLj;Jk;. vdpDk; ,yq;iff;F
Vw;gLfpd;w #oy; kw;Wk; Vida jhf;fq;fs; gw;wp NghJkhd msT ftdk;
nrYj;jg;gltpy;iy. mjdhy; ,yq;iff;F Vw;gLfpd;w jhf;fq;fis fUj;jpw; nfhs;shJ
#ow; jhf;f kjpg;gPl;bid Nkw;nfhz;lik ,yq;iff;F nra;j ghupa JNuhfkhFk;. ,jid
,yq;if murpd; ,iwikf;F Vw;gl;l mtkhdkhff; fUjyhk;. gy;NtW epWtdq;fs; kw;Wk;
mwpQHfs; ,j;jpl;lk; njhlHghd #ow; jhf;f kjpg;gPl;bd; FiwghLfs; gw;wpAk; ,jpy;
cs;s Mgj;jhd epiy gw;wpAk; vLj;Jf;fhl;bAs;shHfs;. mjdbg;gilapy; ,e;jpah-,yq;if
Mfpa ,U ehLfSf;F kl;Lkd;wp ,t;tyaj;jpw;FNk #oy;> r%f> nghUshjhu> kw;Wk;
njhy;nghUs; uPjpahd jhf;fj;jpid Vw;gLj;Jk;.
nghJ kf;fs; kPjhd mOj;jk;> #oy; uPjpahd jhf;fk; vd;gtw;iw fUj;jpw; nfhz;L
gue;jstpyhd kjpg;gPl;bid nra;aNtz;Lk; vd;w Nfhupf;if ,e;jpahtpYk;
fhzg;gLfpd;wJ. tpNrlkhf jkpo; ehL gpuhe;jpa kf;fspdJ Mokhd vjpHg;Gk; ,j;jpl;lj;jpw;F
fhzg;gLfpd;wJ. vdpDk; ,e;jpa kw;Wk; ,yq;if mjpfhupfspdJk; ftdaPdkhd ,r;nraw;ghLfs;
cz;ikapy; ftiyf;FupajhFk;.
,j;jpl;lj;jpy; fhzg;gLfpd;w Mgj;jhd nraw;ghLfs; ,j;jpl;lj;jpd; %yk; Mokw;w
flw;gug;G Njhz;lg;gl;L gpujhd flw;gug;Gld; njhlHG gLj;jg;glTs;sJ. Mokw;w
flw;gug;G Njhz;lg;gLk; NghJ
ntwpNaw;wg;gLk; kzy;> NrW> ghiwfs; vd;gd flw;gug;gpd; ,UkUq;fpYk;
nfhl;lg;gLk;. fg;gy; %yk; ntspNaw;wg;gLfpd;w kw;Wk; fg;gy; tpgj;jpdhy;
ntsptplg;gLfpd;w fopTfspdhYk; ghjpg;Gfs; Vw;gLfpd;wd. gpujhdkhd ghjpg;Gfs;
gpd;tUkhW:
fhyepiyapy; Vw;gLk; khw;wk; :
epytptUk; ,aw;if epiyikapd; fPo; tisFlh - kd;dhH rKj;jpu tisaj;jpw;Fk;
ghf;F ePupizf;F ntspapYs;s flw;gug;Gf;fSf;Fkpilapyhd njhlHG
kl;Lg;gLj;jg;gLfpd;wJ. vdpDk; ,t;tfo;tpd; fhuzkhf ,k;kl;Lg;gLj;jYf;F
gjpyhf NkYk; ,j;njhlu;G tYT+l;lg;gLfpwJ. fhyepiy khw;wq;fs; ePNuhl;lq;fspd;
nraw;ghLfspdhNyNa Vw;gLfpd;wJ. jw;NghJ epytp tUk; ePNuhl;lq;fspd;
nraw;ghLfs; kPdpd tpUj;jpia jPu;khdpg;gNjhL cfe;j fhyepiyiaAk;
jPHkhdpf;fpwJ.
fhyepiyapy; Vw;gLk; khw;wq;fs; gw;wp #oy; jhf;f kjpg;gPl;by;
Fwpg;gplg;gltpy;iy. njhlHr;rpahf eilngWk; fhyepiy nraw;ghLfs; fhy;thapd;
epue;jpu jd;ikapy; jhf;fj;ij Vw;gLj;Jk;. cauiy> miytbtk;> ePNuhl;lq;fs;
Nghd;wtw;wpd; ,aw;ifahd nraw;ghL khw;wg;gLtjdhy; Mrpa kw;Wk; gRgpf;
tiyaj;jpy; epytptUk; epiyahd fhyepiyj; jd;ikfs; rPHFiyf;fg;gLfpd;wd.
capH gy;tifik ghjpf;fg;gLjy; :
mfo;T eilngWk; tiyaj;jpy; jw;NghJ Nkw;nfhs;sg;gl;LtUk; Ma;TfSf;F Vw;g
3>600 Nkw;gl;l jhtu tpyq;fpdq;fis mg;gFjp nfhz;bUg;gJ njupa te;Js;sJ.
KUiff;fy;> flw;ghrp> fz;lw;jhtu njhFjpfs; Nghd;wtw;iw nfhz;Ls;s ,j;njhFjp
capHg;ghJfhg;G gpuNjrkhf Fwpg;gplg;gLfpd;wJ. mjdhy; rHtNjr kw;Wk; Njrpa
kl;lj;jpy; ngWkjp tha;e;j GzHepHkhz rl;l tpjpKiwfSf;F mika ghJfhg;ghd
gpuNjrkhf ,J fUjg;gLfpwJ. jw;Nghija epiyapy; ghupasT fg;gw; Nghf;Ftuj;J
fhzg;glhj ,aw;if mdHj;jq;fspdhYk; ghJfhf;fg;gl;l gpuNjrkhf ,Ue;J tUfpwJ.
mt;thNw NghjpasT czT tiffisAk; ePupay; kw;Wk; Gtpapay; mk;rq;fisAk; nfhz;L
fhzg;gLfpwJ. ,jdhy; Vida rKj;jpu tyaq;fis tpl capHgy;tifikf;fhd ghJfhg;G ,q;F
fhzg;gLfpwJ. fg;gw; fhy;tha; gFjp ,yq;ifapd; vy;iy Gwj;ij Nehf;fp mikf;ff;
fhuzk; ,e;jpa rKj;jpu gug;gpd; capHgy;tifikia ,ad;wsT ghJfhf;Fk;
Nehf;fkhFk;. mfo;T Nkw;nfhs;Sk; NghJ mfo;e;J vLf;fg;gLk; nghUl;fs; kw;Wk;
fg;gw; fopTfs; kw;Wk; fhyepiyapy; Vw;gLk; khw;wq;fs; vd;gtw;wpd; fhuzkhf
capHgy;tifikf;F ngUksT mr;RWj;jy; Vw;gLk;. ,t; capH gy;tifikf;F Vw;gLk;
mr;RWj;jy; njhlHghf tya uPjpapy; kl;Lkd;wp rHtNjr uPjpapYk; ftdk; nrYj;j
Ntz;Lk;. cjhuzkhf Mrpa gRgpf; tyaj;jpD}lhf gazpf;fpd;w cy;yhr gwitfspd; ,aw;ifahd
Nghf;Ftuj;Jg; ghijapy; Vw;gLk; jlq;fy;fs; jq;Fkplk;> kw;Wk; czT jsq;fspd;
mopT Nghd;wtw;iw Fwpg;gplyhk;.
,J jtpu fhyepiy khw;wj;jpd; fhuzkhf Vw;gLj;jg;gLfpd;w gy;NtW jhf;fq;fshdit
KUiff;fy;> flw;ghrp> fz;lw; jhtu njhFjpfs; kl;Lkd;wp ,Uehl;bDs;Sk;
fhzg;gLk; fhl;Lr;#oy; njhFjpfs; kw;Wk; mjd; gy;tifik kPJk; jhf;fj;ij
Vw;gLj;Jk;.
,yq;ifapy; 917>122.95 n`f;NuaH mstpyhd fhl;Lg;NghHit fhzg;gLfpd;wJ. ,g;NghHit
rKj;jpuj;jpdhy; #og;gl;l madkz;ly tyaj;jpYs;s epyg;gug;gpy; mike;Js;sd.
gpujhd ,U gUt nraw;ghLfs; kw;Wk; cifg;G kio nraw;gLfs; Nghd;wtw;wpd; %yk;
ePiug;ngw;Wf;nfhs;fpd;w ehlhFk;. kj;jpa kiy ehl;bypUe;J Muk;gpj;J Miu
tbtpy; tbe;J nry;fpd;w 103 ejpj;njhFjpfs; %yk; Nghrpf;fg;gLfpd;wJ. ,jdhy;
capHgy;tifikapdhYk; jdpj;Jtj;jpdhYk; cauplj;jpy; fhzg;gLfpd;wJ. vdpDk; ,f;fhl;Lj;njhFjp
ehl;bd; #ow; rkepiyf;F Vw;wstpw;F ,y;iy vd;W $Wkstpw;F
kl;Lg;gLj;jg;gl;Ls;sJ. mt;thNw cyfr; #oy; mopTfspd; jhf;fq;fSk;
fhzg;gLfpd;wd. ,jd; fhuzkhf capHgy;tifik kpf tpiuthf mope;J nfhz;L
nry;fpwJ. ,j;jifa epiyikapd; fPo; cj;Njrpf;fg;gl;Ls;s ,j;jpl;lj;jpdhy;
Vw;gLj;jg;gLfpd;w Fwpg;gplj;jf;f #oy; khw;wq;fs; capHg;gy;tifikapd;
moptpw;Fk; fhuzkhf mikAk;.
kPd; cw;gj;jp epyq;fs; ghjpf;fg;gLjy; :
,t;tyaj;jpy; ,uz;L gpujhd kPDw;gj;jp epyq;fs; fhzg;gLfpd;wd. Ngl;Nwh
kPDw;gj;jp epiyaj;jpd; %yk; ngUksT ed;ik miltJ ,yq;ifahFk;. vdpDk; ,jpy;
rpW gFjp eyid ,e;jpahTk; ngw;Wf;nfhs;tNjhL ntr; kPDw;gj;jp epiyaj;jpd; KO
ed;ikAk; ,e;jpahTf;Nf nrd;wilfpd;wJ. gy;NtW KUiff;fy;> flw;ghrp>
fz;lw;jhtu njhFjpfs; mbg;gilahff;nfhz;L rpW mstpyhd kPDw;gj;jp epyq;fs;
cUthf;fg;gl;Ls;sd. ,U gpujhd kPDw;gj;jp epyq;fis mz;b mfo;Tg;nghUl;fs;
Ftpf;fg;glTs;sd. mt;thNw flw;gug;G Njhz;lg;gLk; NghJ kzy;> NrW vd;gd
fhuzkhf ePu; fyq;fbf;fg;gLk;.
,e;epiyahy; kPDw;gj;jp epyq;fs; ghjpf;fg;gLk;. mt;thNw Nkw;$wg;gl;l
fhyepiy khw;wk; fhuzkhfTk; kPDw;gj;jp epyq;fs; ghjpf;fg;gLk;.
kPd;gpbj;Jiw ghupasT ghjpf;fg;gLjy; :
kPDw;gj;jpapd; kPjhd ghjpg;ghdJ mj;Jiwapd; moptpid cWjpg;gLj;Jk;. mJ ,U
ehl;bw;Fk; nghJthdjhFk;. ,yq;ifapy; kPd;gpbapy; <LgLk; kPdtf; fpuhkq;fs;
1>337 MFk;. kPd;gpbj;Jiwapy; <LgLk; kPdtf;FLk;gq;fspd; vz;zpf;if 123>970 (rdj;njhif
530>420) MFk;. ,J ,k; KO kPdtf;FLk;gq;fspd; tUkhdj;jpYk;> kPDw;gj;jpapd;
mstpYk;; jhf;fj;jpid Vw;gLj;Jk;. 2003 Mk; Mz;by; ,yq;ifapd; nkhj;j
kPDw;gj;jpapy;;; 40>190 nkw;wpf; nlhd; msthd cw;gj;jp tl gFjpapNyNa
Nkw;nfhs;sg;gl;lJ. tUlhe;jk;; 15>689.9 nkw;wpf; nlhd; msthd Vw;Wkjpapdhy;
9>542.5 kpy;ypad; &gha; tUkhdk; ,yq;iff;F fpilf;fg;ngWfpd;wJ. ,e; epiyf;F
ghjpg;G Vw;gLkhdhy;; NeubahfTk;> kiwKfkhfTk; kPd;gpbj;Jiwapy; <Lgl;LtUfpd;w
,yl;rf;fzf;fhd kf;fs; ghjpf;fg;gl;L njhopy; tha;g;gpid ,of;fTk; NeupLk;. ,e;epiy
,e;jpahTf;Fk; nghJthdjhFk;. ,e;jpahtpy; ghjpf;fg;gLk; kPdtf; fpuhkq;fs; 49
MFk;. ,jdhy; Neubahf 14>000 kPdtu;fs; ghjpf;fg;gLtJld; kiwKfkhf 54>000
NgupdJ tho;thjhuk; ghjpf;fg;gLk;.
tptrha cw;gj;jp ghjpf;fg;gLjy; :
,yq;ifapy; gy;NtW tptrha cw;gj;jpfs; 3>115>076 n`f;Nlau; epyg;gug;gpy;
Nkw;nfhs;sg;gl;L tUfpwJ. ,J ,yq;ifapd; czT cw;gj;jp kl;Lkd;wp Vw;Wkjp
tUkhdj;jpw;Fk; ghupa gq;fspg;ig nra;fpd;wJ. mt;thNw ,yl;rf;fhd kf;fspd;
Neub kw;Wk; kiwKfkhd tUkhd topapidAk; ghJfhf;fpd;wJ. ,j;jpl;;lj;jpd; ghupa
jhf;fkhfpa fhyepiy khw;wj;jpd; fhuzkhf ,e;epiyapy; rupT Vw;gl tha;g;G
cs;sJ. tpNrlkhf gUt nraw;ghl;L khw;wj;jpd; fhuzkhf jiug;gpuNjrj;jpw;F
fpilf;ff;$ba kiotPo;r;rpapd; msT fl;Lg;gLj;jg;gLfpd;wJ. ,J ,e;jpah
cs;spl;l Vida Mrpa ehLfspw;Fk; nghJthd XH epiyahFk;.
fg;gy; %yk; Vw;gLj;jg;gLk; flw; ghjpg;Gk; mjdhy; Vw;gLk; ghjpg;GfSk; :
rhjhuzkhd epiyapy; rKj;jpuj;jpy; gazpf;Fk; fg;gy;fspd; fopT ePH flYf;F
tplg;gLfpd;wd. mt;thNw fg;gy; Nkhjy;fs; (tpNrlkhf flypd; eLg;gFjpapy;
fhy;tha; fiufs; fhzg;gLtjdhy;) Vw;gLtjw;fhd rhj;jpaf;$Wfs; fhzg;gLfpd;wd.
,g;ghjpg;ghdJ kPd;gpbj; Jiwf;F kl;Lkd;wp fiuNahu #oy; njhFjpf;Fk; ePz;lfhy
ghjpg;gpid Vw;gLj;Jk;. mNj Nghy KUif fw;ghiw kw;Wk; kPdpdq;fs; ngUfp thOk;
,lq;fSk; mopT epiyf;F js;sg;gLk;. kPd;gpbf;ifj;njhopy;> cy;yhr gazj;Jiw
cs;spl;l gy;NtW nraw;ghLfspw;fhd fiuNahug;gFjpapidAk; ehk; ,of;fNeupLk;.
kPdtHfSf;fpilapy; Nkhjy; Vw;gLjy; :
Nkw;$wg;gl;l epiyikfspd; fPo; kPd;gpbj;Jiw ghupasT ghjpf;fg;gLk; vd;gJ
cWjpahdJ. mt;thNw jw;NghJ ,g;gpuNjrj;jpy; gazpf;fpd;w fg;gy;fspd; mstpid
tpl kpf Ntfkhf ,yq;if flw; gpuNjrj;jpy; fg;gy;fspd; Mf;fpukpg;G fhzg;gLk;.
,J rk;ge;jkhf ,U ehLfSf;fpilapYk; Vw;fdNt Kuz;ghLfs; Vw;gl;Ls;sJld; ,J
vjpHfhyj;jpy; tpUj;jpailaTk; tha;g;Gs;sJ. ,jdhy; kPdtHfs; tsq;fSf;fhf NtW
ehLfis Nehf;fp efuTk; tha;g;Gz;L. ,jdhy; ,U ehl;L kPdtHfSk; ghjpg;GWtH.
,aw;if mdu;j;jq;fspd; NghJ jhf;fq;fs; mjpfupj;jy; :
,aw;if mdHj;jq;fs; vq;F> vr;re;jHg;gj;jpy;> ve;jsT jhf;fj;ij Vw;gLj;Jk;
vd;W $wKbahJ. ,j;jpl;lkhdJ 10>500 rJu fp.kP tiu gue;J fhzg;gLk;. ,g;gpuNjrj;Jf;F
mz;ba gFjpapy; GtpeLf;fk; ,U Kiw (1938>1933) epfo;e;Js;sik gw;wp md;ikapy;
nra;jpfs; ntspahfpd. ,Jtiu nraw;glhj ,U vupkiyfSk; ,j;jpl;lg;gFjpf;F
md;ikapy; mike;Js;sd. mt;thNw FspH kw;Wk; #lhd ePNuhll;lq;;fspd;
nraw;ghLfs;> Rdhkp miyapypUe;jhd ghJfhg;G vd;gdtw;iw ,of;f Ntz;ba epiy
cUthfpAs;sJ. tpNrlkhf jw;NghJs;s flyupg;G Ntfj;ij tpl vjpHfhyj;jpy; kpf
Ntfkhf flyupg;G Vw;gl tha;g;Gz;L.
fyhr;rhu kw;Wk; njhy;ypay; uPjpapyhd ngWkjp :
tuyhw;WuPjpahf ,e;jpahTf;Fk; ,yq;iff;Fkpilapyhd njhlu;ig cWjpg;gLj;Jk;
tifapy; mike;jpUf;Fk; Mjhkpd; ghyk; cl;gl;l mjp tuyhw;W Kf;fpaj;Jtk;
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ngw;Wf;nfhLj;jy;.
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ngw;Wf;nfhLg;gjd; %yk; mOj;jq;fis Nkw;nfhs;shJ ghHj;Jf;nfhs;sy;.
|
The Sethusamudram Project is a mega naval development project on the Sri
Lanka-India maritime border. It is being implemented according to the unilateral
wish and will of the Indian government. It is nevertheless a project that ought
to receive the attention and raise the concerns of Sri Lanka, the Asia-Pacific
region as well as the entire world.
The Sri Lankan government, for reasons of political expediency, has adopted a
conciliatory position, while the Indian government seeks to achieve its
commercial and national security related objectives. While the Indian people
have had little or no say in the matter and are therefore helpless, Sri Lankan
have either remained silence for petty reasons or have adopted an anti-Indian
stance regarding the project. This situation does not bode well for either the
respective peoples of these countries or for all the ecological systems.
The Indian government has prepared an Environment Impact Assessment in relation
to the project. Considering the dimensions and the character of the project, it
is not possible for us to be satisfied with this Assessment. It remains an
incomplete document and it is our view that it is such because of a deliberate
strategy of concealing the true impact and damage potential of the project. The
project itself has a 144 year old history. The environmental and societal cost
of implementing the project has been the main reason why this has not got off
the ground for so long. The current trace of the canal has been developed after
considering many options.
Although the canal will lie on Indian waters, it is still extremely close to Sri
Lanka's border. As such it directly impacts Sri Lanka's environment, economy and
society and especially her cultural ethos and values. No study has been done on
the effect this project would have on Sri Lanka in these terms. We therefore
express our grave concerns and objections to the fact that the Environmental and
Social impact assessments carried out have not taken account the impact on our
country. It is a serious oversight. Indeed it is an insult to the country and an
open threat to our sovereignty.
Many institutions and experts have pointed out the weaknesses and flaws of the
project and the environmental impact assessment. They have pointed out that the
project will have serious negative social, environmental, archaeological and
economical impacts on Sri Lanka and the region. It has been strongly recommended
in India itself that a comprehensive study be commissioned to assess the
environmental and social aspects of the project. In particular the people of
Tamilnadu have strongly protested this project. It is indeed regrettable that
neither the Indian nor Sri Lankan officials have paid much heed to such
arguments and protests.
The project seeks to deepen the shallow sections of the sea. The sand, mud and
stones thus excavated are to be dumped in areas of the sea where it will cause
further damage. The waste from the ships and the debris released consequent to
accidents will cause the following:
" Climatic changes
The deep seas on both sides of Gulf-Mannar region and that beyond the Palk
Straits are kept separate by the current physical formations. The project, if
implemented, will connect these seas. One of the key determinants of climatic
change is the action of ocean currents. The current system of currents is an
important determinant of marine resources such as fish as well as benign
climates.
The environmental impact assessment is silent on the impact on climate. On the
one hand, temporal changes in the climatic situation will impact the efficacy of
the canal and also, the canal will cause a certain transformation in the action
of waves, currents and tsunamis, thereby disturbing significantly the stability
of the climate in the Asia-Pacific region.
" Destroying biodiversity
According to studies already carried out, there are over 3600 species in the
region where the excavations are to take place. This area, which abounds in
coral, mangroves and other sea plants, has been named a protected biodiversity
site of the world. As such it is subject to both local and international laws
pertaining to biodiversity preservation.
As of now there is very little naval activity in this region. It is an area
which is largely protected from natural calamity. It is a site of abundant food
sources. Its geographical and physiological uniqueness has made it one of the
most important biodiversity preserves. The proposed canal seems to have been
pushed as close to the Sri Lankan border in order to protect the marine
resources on the Indian side as far as possible.
It is clear that the excavation, waste from ships and other effluents will
considerably impact the biodiversity of the area, to the extent that it will
impact not only the region but the entire earth as a whole. For example, the
routes taken by migratory creatures that cross from Asia to the Pacific will be
disrupted and their breeding, nesting and feeding grounds will be destroyed.
In addition, the resultant climatic change will certainly cause damage to the
corals, mangroves and sea weeds, impacting negatively the ecological balance of
the coasts of both countries and the biodiversity therein.
Sri Lanka has 917122.95ha of natural forest cover. This forest cover lies in a
land mass surrounded by sea in the tropical zone. The country enjoys a weather
pattern consisting of two monsoons and inter-monsoonal rains. Fresh water flows
from the central hills to the coast along major 103 rivers. As a result there is
a high density of biodiversity, difference and endemic fauna and flora. However
this forest cover, fast dwindling, is barely sufficient to maintain the
environmental balance of the island, in particular since the island is by no
means insulated by the damage done to the environment globally. We are currently
witnessing a serious erosion of our biodiversity. Even the slightest erasure of
biodiversity caused by the project is cause for serious worry, we firmly
believe.
" Destroying of breeding grounds of fish
There are two key breeding grounds in the project region. It is Sri Lanka that
benefits mostly from the Pedro Bank breeding ground. While India also benefits
from this, the entirety of the Wedge Bank breeding ground is at its disposal. In
addition there are minor breeding grounds associated with the coral reefs,
mangroves and sea grass in both countries. The dumping from the excavation will
occur by the two key breeding grounds. The water will be unnecessarily churned
by the movement of sand and mud. This would no doubt impact the breeding grounds
negatively. This of course is in addition to the impact on these breeding
grounds due to probable climatic changes precipitated by the project.
" Impacting the fisheries industry
Destroying fish is naturally the end of the fisheries industry. This will affect
both countries. There are 1337 fishing villages in Sri Lanka. There are 123,970
families (a population of 530,420) living in these villages who depend on the
industry. This project will significantly impact their catch and therefore their
income. The project will directly cause much disruption among the fishing
villages in the districts of Mannar, Jaffna, Killinochchi and Mullaitivu. Sri
Lanka produced 284,960 metric tons of fish in 2003. Of this, 40,190 metric tons
were produced in the aforementioned districts. Sri Lanka earns Rs. 9,524.5
million annually by exporting 15,689.9 metric tons of fish. The project will
directly impact those who are directly involved in the fisheries industry and/or
those who indirectly benefit from it. The project will displace hundreds of
thousands of fishing families and destroy the industry. It is estimated that 49
fishing villages in India will suffer from the project. Over 14,000 fishermen
will be directly affected while 54,000 will lose their livelihoods indirectly.
" Impact on agricultural production
Around 3,115,076ha of Sri Lanka is utilized for agricultural activity. This is
extremely important to the country's food security and foreign exchange earnings
through export. In addition agriculture is the direct and indirect source of
income for millions of Sri Lankans. The significant impact on the environment
and especially the climate changes will no doubt have a direct and serious
impact on the lives of these people. In particular the impact of the project on
the monsoons could limit the rainfall. This is a condition that is common to
India and the rest of the region as well.
" Pollution of the ocean and its impact
Even under normal conditions, ships cause pollution. There is also the
possibility of accidents, in particular since the banks of the canals lie
underwater. This would cause long term damage to the fisheries industry as well
as the ecological systems on the coastline. Most important in this is the damage
caused to the coral reefs and the breeding grounds for fish. The character of
the coastline, crucial to the fisheries as well as the tourist industry, could
also be altered.
" Conflict among fisher-folk
It is clear that there will be a drop in the harvest of fish. At the same time
it is likely that Sri Lankan waters will be encroached upon by fishing vessels
at a much higher rate. Already there is conflict between fishermen of the two
countries and this can only be exacerbated by the project. In the end it is the
local fishermen who will suffer in both countries.
" Increased threat of natural disasters
It is impossible to predict when, where and in what intensity natural disaster
may strike. The project spans an area of 10500 square kilometers between the
coordinates 77.8 degrees and 79.3 degrees latitude. Two earthquakes have
occurred close to this area, in 1938 and in 1993. There are also two dormant
volcanoes near the project area. The project will result in the loss of
protection from warm and cold currents and possible tsunamis. Most critically,
it is likely that the project will enhance the rate of erosion of the coastline.
" Damage to culture and archaeology
Adam's bridge, which has historically facilitated the cultural exchange and
mutual-nourishment between Sri Lanka and India, will be destroyed by this
project. We will lose many artifacts that are of social, cultural and
archaeological import.
" Impact on trade
There were 4032 ships that docked in Sri Lanka in 2003. Of these 3838 arrived at
the Colombo Port. Sri Lanka has already spent a lot of money in expanding the
capacity of the Colombo Port. The project will render these improvements
meaningless and lessen the importance of Colombo as a port city internationally.
As a country whose economy is considerably dependent on international trade this
project will cause a number of problems within Sri Lanka. One of the key roles
played by the Colombo Port is that of a transshipment hub. The annual return of
Rs. 10,291 million will considerably diminish if this project goes ahead.
" Destruction of small Islands
It is the islands that will have to bear the brunt of erosion. Although most of
these islands are uninhabited, their location does have a geographical and
ecological significance. They are the feeding grounds, nesting grounds and
resting places of migratory birds and play an important role in controlling the
impact of currents and tsunamis. There are some which are inhabited and some are
seasonally used by fisherman from both countries. The damage that could be
caused would be impossible to correct and it will have an international impact
as well.
The stand of Sri Lankan communities regarding the Sethusamudram Project and
recommendations
= Terminate the Sethusamudram Project and search for alternatives
= Commission an independent and internationally acceptable comprehensive study
of the project and its impacts on both countries and the region that covers the
economic, social, cultural and environmental concerns detailed above, and
recommends viable alternatives
= Make available all information pertaining to current activities and activities
planned to the peoples of both countries with full fidelity to the ethic of
transparency
= Provide adequate and just opportunity for state agencies and other groups
working in both countries as well as internationally on issues of human rights
and environmental concerns to express their opinions
= Provide opportunity for everyone to access such opinions, criticism and
suggestions and especially provide this information to those peoples who are
directly impacted in the language of their choice
= Make adequate provisions to prevent the use of force or bribery in money or
kind to obtain approval for the project.
|
Members of National Movement Against Sethusamudram |
1.All Ceylon Workers
Association for Fishing Peoples
2.Earth Co- Habitants Development Foundation, Imaduwa
3.Human Development Forum, Matara
4.Help-O, Galle.
5.Arunalu Community Development Foundation, Tangalle
6.Sathvijaya Padanama, Ihalakeembiya.
7.Organization of Human Resource & Environmental Protection , Thissamaharama
8.Prajashakthi Sanwardhana Padanama
9.Social Economic Leadership Foundation, Weeraketiya
10.Janadiriya National Women Development, Weligathta.
11.Institute of Human Resource & Environment Development, Pannamgoda
12.Green Explores, Pelmadulla
13.Rathnapura District Organization of Indigenous seeds Produce's -
Opanayaka
14.Environment & Human Development Foundation, Kuruwita
15.Madara Planting Service, Eheliyagoda
16.Organization of Environment & Children Rights, Preservation
17.Veligepola Integrated Community Development Socity, Parakaduwa
18.Participatory Development Centre, Kalawana
19.Hunuwala Welfare Society, Opanayaka
20.Sakura Lanka Mithuro Solidarity Foundation, Buluthota
21.Samadhi Forum, Ruwanwella
22.Solidarity Development Foundation,Yatiyanthota
23.Warakapola Collective Development Organization
24.Malmaduwa Participatory Development, Rambukkana
25.Nirmanee Development Foundation, Hettimulla
26.Community Development Centre, Aranayaka
27.Peoples Development Foundation, Dehiowita
28.Galigamu Peoples Foundation, Galigamuwa
29.Sri Lanka Environment Exploration Socity, Polgahawela
30.Imso Development Foundation, Hettimulla
31.Human Resource Development Centre, Mavanella
32.Monaragala Kavdawa Navoda Isuru Samajaya, Monaragala
33.Isuru Community Development Foundation, Buttala.
34.Child Rights Protection Foundation, Monaragala.
35.Sahabagithwa Sanwardene sangamaya, Monaragala
36.Lawer Uva Development Centre, Bibile.
37.Wellassa Development Foundation, Bibile
38.Lawer Uva Women Development Foundation, Monaragala
39.Future In Our Hand, Badulla
40.Organization for Protection of Human Resources in Pahala Uva, Ethiwewa.
41.Women Development Foundation, Badulla.
42.Kinigama Vegetable & Fruit Producing Society, Bandarawela.
43.Centre for Protection of Community Resource, Monaragala.
44.Bio diversity Research Information & Training Institute, Badulla
45.Uva Govijana Kendraya, Bandarawela
46.Uva Sustainable Development Net, Badulla.
47.Sadaharitha Parisara Mithurange Sangamaya, Gampala.
48.Naula Grameeya Sanwardhana Maha Sangamaya , Na-Ula
49.Community Development Foundation of Kundasale, Katugasthota.
50.Environment & Natural Resources Development Centre, Kandy
51.Up Country community Development Forum, Matale
52.ARUNALU Drug Prevention & community
53.Up Country Environmental Forum Development Centre, Gampala.
54.Organization of Parisara Piyasa, Nawalapitiya.
55.Dumbara Mithuro Coordination Office , Naula
56.Sarala Sahana Seva, Gmpala
57.Kandurata Sobadaham Sanraksana Samaja Arthika ,Matale
58.Isuru Jeevithodaya Padanama, Hanguranketha
59.Avadi lanka, Nuwara Eliya |
60.Walapane Rural Solidarity
Programme, Nildandahinna.
61.Sri Lanka centre of Sustainable Alternative Solution For Community
Upliftment, Hatton
62.Panduka Organization, Anukkane
63.Rural Centre for Development, Nikaweratiya.
64.Wanni Community Development Foundation, Thanthirimale
65.Jathika Govi Damuluwa, Eppawala
66.Parisarikayo, Wellampitiya.
67.Arunodaya Parisarikayo, Mabodale
68.Committee For Environmental & Consumer Problem, Jaela
69.Kahapola Rejidel Wathta Surekeeme Sanvidanaya, Madapatha
70.Raddolugama Sumithuro, Raddolugama
71.Mihimavu Science Foundation, Nugegoda
72.Organization to Safeguard Life & Environment OSLEN), Nugegoda
73.Partners of Environment Protection, Bathtaramulla.
74.Institute Of Tropical Studies & Conservation Environmental Organization,
Kosgama
75.SENEHASA, Thummodara
76.Community Oriented Resource Exchange (CORE), Meegahathenna.
77.Podujana Himikam Kamituva, Gurugoda,Horana
78.Mihithala Mithuro Environmental Development Foundation, Gonapala
79.Janasra Padanama, Bellana.
80.Community & Environmental Development Foundation, Morontuduwa
81.Panadura Dharmashakthi Foundation, Panadura
82.Integrated Social Development Foundation, Kalutara North
83.Saruketha Movement, Mathugama
84.Beacon of the East- Social Service Organization, Batticaloa.
85.Team of Youth for Development Understanding and Progress ( TYDUP) ,
Trincomalee
86.Nethra, Batticaloa.
87.Rural Economic & Community Development Organization ( RECDO)
88.Nesda, Batticaloa
89.WWDF, Batticaloa
90.Desmio, Batticaloa.
91.Sri Lanka Environment Exploration Society
92.MANITHAM-Sri Lanka
93.Rural Women Front
94.Young Zoologist Association
95.Samadhi Foundation - Galle
96.Kithudhana Pubuduwa - Prasansaramaya
97.Public Campaign for Environmental Development
98.Movement for Protection of Eppawala Phosphate Deposits
99.SEDEC -
100.SETIC
101.Ruk Rakaganno - Trees Protection Society
101. National Forum for Community Organization
102.Kirindioya Integrated Farmer Organization
103.Janawabodhaya
104.Environment Exploration and Conservation Association - Nuwara-eliya
105.Turtle Conservation Project
106.People's Development Foundation
107.Centre for Participatory Development
108.Organization for Human and Environment Development
109.Centre for Environmental and Cultural Education
110.Development Education Center for Human and Natural Resource Management
111.Trade Union of Conservators of Forest
112.Village Development & Environmental Conservation Foundation
113.Thurunu Mihisaraniya - Green Brigade
114.Green Movement of Sri Lanka
115.Rural Centre for Development - SANGRAMA
116.Public Service United Nurse's Association
117.Postal & Telecommunication Officers' Association
118.Free Trade on Workers Union
119.Union of Health Services of Republic of Sri Lanka
120.Lawyers Association for Human Rights and Development
121.United Trade Union Federation of the Irrigation Department for the
Protection of Irrigation Resources & Farmers
122.Bank of Ceylon Workers Union
123.Movement for National Land & Agriculture Reform |
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