On 22.08.2025, a field visit was conducted with the participation of relevant officials, along with public and political authorities, to verify the land rights of long-term residents within the Kahalla Pallekele Sanctuary, a vital area in the North Western Wildlife Zone. The visit focused on surveying, demarcating, and protecting the Hakwatunawa Tank Reserve, which is an important water source for wildlife, including elephants, in the Galgamuwa region. The initiative also aimed to propose lasting solutions to human-elephant conflicts by renovating ancient tanks, including the Kalamaduwa Tank in the Kalamadu Ela Reserve, and ensuring the provision of water and food for wild animals, including elephants, within the reserve itself.
The gathering included Hon. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Mr. Namal Karunaratne, Hon. Member of Parliament, Attorney-at-Law, Ms. Geetha Herath, Secretary and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Kurunegala District Secretary, Secretary to the North Western Governor, Provincial Land Commissioner, Kurunegala Irrigation Director, Polpithigama Divisional Secretary, Kurunegala District Forest Officer, District Wildlife Assistant Director, Pradeshiya Sabha members of the area, residents of the area and the Assistant Land Commissioner, Janaka D. Bandara Herath participated representing the Land Commissioner General.
