In the aftermath of the war’s conclusion in 2009, the Northern and Eastern regions of Sri Lanka witnessed a remarkable sight for those who ventured there – pristine forests, unlike many found in the rest of the country, stood preserved and resplendent. Even iconic wildlife species left subtle traces of their presence in the untouched sands. While these creatures were rarely seen during daylight hours, the fact remained that vast expanses of forests and numerous wildlife populations endured.
Fast forward 14 years, and the narrative has drastically shifted. Today, disturbing reports emerge of rampant deforestation and the unchecked killing of wildlife in these once-virgin lands. Human-elephant conflict has escalated to unprecedented levels. As the saying goes, “to the victor belongs the spoils,” but these ‘spoils’ are not exclusive – they belong to the entire nation and hold the key to its future health and prosperity. Their destruction foreshadows catastrophe.
Despite these alarming developments, the plight of these regions remains largely hidden from the general public. Many remain blissfully unaware that the country’s natural wealth is under siege, not only in the North and East but also in various other parts of the island, with an intensity previously unseen.
Are these hard-fought, post-war territories destined to be devastated within a mere couple of decades? What about the potential revenue that could be generated by preserving and showcasing these magnificent places and creatures to the world, benefitting both the nation and local communities? Furthermore, what of the broader environmental concerns, such as climate change and global warming, and the disruptive impacts they are beginning to unleash on the island – prolonged droughts followed by destructive deluges? Are we willing to jeopardize the future in the name of unbridled greed?
Dr. S. Wijeyamohan, a distinguished figure in conservation circles, has been a steadfast advocate for preserving the North and East regions of Sri Lanka. His expertise in wildlife ecology, conservation, and management, coupled with his role as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Bio-Science at the University of Vavuniya, has made him a leading voice in the efforts to address human-elephant conflict, particularly through innovative approaches like low-cost ‘hanging’ electric fencing.
A member of the IUCN Asian Elephant Group and the IUCN Crocodile Specialists Group, Dr. Wijeyamohan has an extensive list of publications to his credit. He has mentored and guided numerous young scientists and researchers in the North and East, making him a prominent figure for those seeking to comprehend the reality and dispel the ignorance surrounding these incredibly biodiverse yet increasingly imperiled regions of the nation.
