The ‘Samanola Siri – Green Pilgrimage’ national programme, implemented by the “Clean Sri Lanka” Secretariat, commenced its second phase today (19) with the successful launch of a one-day voluntary labour campaign at the Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) sacred site. The initiative is being carried out via the Nallathanniya and Ratnapura access routes, focusing on the removal of accumulated waste from highly inaccessible locations in the upper precincts of the pilgrimage site.
The operation is being conducted with the participation of state institutions, the tri-forces, the Police, the Civil Security Department, the private sector, civil society organisations and volunteer groups, alongside the active involvement of the general public.
“ ‘Samanola Siri- Green Pilgrimage’ National Programme”
Accordingly, the programme was launched today (19) at 5.45 a.m. near the Nallathanniya Police Station under the patronage of the Minister of Environment, Mr Dhammika Patabendi, and Mr S.P.C. Sugeeshwara, Additional Secretary to the President at the Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat.
Through this project, the public is provided with an opportunity to actively engage with the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, while opening avenues for fostering new approaches to developing positive civic attitudes. Furthermore, the programme is expected to enhance tourist appeal, given that Sri Pada is both a valuable environmental heritage site and a place of religious significance.
Public awareness activities are also being carried out to discourage behaviour that could damage the ecosystem of the Sri Pada reserve, which is recognised as an environmentally sensitive zone. In parallel, awareness programmes aimed at promoting ethical conduct and responsible pilgrimage practices among devotees will be implemented throughout the current Sri Pada season under the “Clean Sri Lanka” concept.
In line with the Government’s policy vision of creating “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life” for all Sri Lankan citizens, a series of projects and programmes have been launched under the environmental pillar of the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. These efforts are currently being implemented successfully with the objective of nurturing citizens who value the environment, respect sustainability and contribute to building a morally responsible society with positive attitudes.
President’s Media Division (PMD)
