Kaluganga project blackens people’s lives – Residents on hunger strike

A female and two men who were taking part in a fast unto death campaign opposite Laggala – Pallegama Divisional Secretariat from the 20th had to be hospitalized as their health condition deteriorated and a tense situation erupted with their hospitalization. All shops in the area have been closed and more than thousand people have gathered in support of the fast unto death campaign says Mr. K.G. Bandrathileke, a committee member of the Committee to safeguard rights of People at Laggala.

The protest campaign has been launched demanding authorities to add 50% more to compensation that has been estimated for 980 families in the area who lose their lands and property due to Moragahakanda – Kaluganga Development Project.

The Laggala – Pallegama Traders Association too has joined the campaign.

46 year old Mrs. Wasanthi Kumari, 29 year old Mr. Asanga Dissanayaka and 43 year old Mr. Ranjith Abeysinghe who were taking part in the fast unto death had to be hospitalized when their condition suddenly deteriorated.

Discussions held with relevant government politicians have been unsuccessful and protestors complain that the government is marking time without paying compensation for the lands and property they have lost for the project. They also complain that the compensation promised to them have been slashed and say they would continue their struggle until they are fully compensated for the lands and property they have lost due to the project.