As part of the Canada International Development Agency (CIDA)/International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) funded project to enhance the capacity of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in partnership with the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (MFAR) launched a programme recently to clean the Kapparathota Coral Reef in Weligama Bay.
Coral reefs are the breeding and nursery grounds for a large number of marine species. In addition, they provide coastal protection. They are also important for coastal tourism and for the marine fish industry. During the recent past, coral reefs have been degraded on a global scale due to man-made and natural causes. Destructive fishing methods, coastal development and uncontrolled resource exploitation has had a serious negative impact on the status of live coral reefs and subsequently the marine life that depends on these reefs. Coral reefs, including those in Sri Lanka were further affected in 1998 during the widespread coral bleaching event and the 2004 tsunami. Their recovery has been slow and variable.
A resource survey of marine aquarium species recently carried out under the CIDA/IFAD/FAO project has revealed that most coral reef habitats in the southern coast of Sri Lanka have been seriously degraded, posing a significant risk to the sustainable continuity of the fisheries industry. High pollution levels and physical damage to coral reefs have lowered their potential to recover. These findings were presented at two stakeholder meetings held in the Matara District, where unanimous consensus was reached to take action. As a result, efforts are underway and will continue through this clean up programme to save the Kapparathota Coral Reef, which is the last remaining living, extensive reef in the Southern coast.
The programme is continuing to raise environmental awareness of the deteriorating condition of coral reefs among key stakeholders and the need for their protection In addition; the programme will promote closer linkages among the management authorities, improve communication among stakeholders and provide a platform for future development and conservation of the marine aquarium fishers and coral reef habitats. The most importantly, the quality and condition of the Kapparathota coral reef will be directly improved through this programme, contributing to the sustainable management and continuity of marine resources in Sri Lanka, ensuring that the multiple and exotic species dependent on this magnificent marine habitat are protected.
Among the Key stakeholders who participated at this programme were the Weligama Divisional Secretariat, Fisheries Officers from Matara and Galle, and representatives from the Weligama Urban Council and Food Association of Tourism Service Providers.