President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said a special authority will be established this year to ensure the protection of the Central Highlands, with sweeping powers to regulate development and conservation activities in the region.

The President made these remarks while attending the inauguration of the Godanagamu Adhishtanaye Sanhinda national programme, aimed at the rapid restoration of religious sites damaged by Cyclone Ditwah and reopening them for worship and religious activities.

The event was held today (27) at the Sri Bodhirukkarama Viharaya in Gampola under the patronage of the President.

President Dissanayake said the proposed authority will be mandated to formulate and oversee all plans related to agro-industry, irrigation, wildlife conservation, and resettlement within the Central Highlands. He added that strong legislation will be introduced to grant the body full legal authority.

Support for the initiative is expected from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), he noted.

Accordingly, all development projects within the Central Highlands will require prior approval from the authority. The President further stressed that the body will have the power to take strict legal action against any violations of approved plans and strategies.