This was stated by the State Minister at a discussion held at the Ministry June (08).

The main reason for the inundation of Wattala and Ja-Ela areas is the illegal settlements that have been done by filling up the swamps. Accordingly, we have decided to obtain reports from the relevant Divisional Secretaries and demolish the unauthorized structures. Accordingly, the Gampaha District Secretary has already been instructed to take necessary action.

In the past, the construction of the Ja-Ela canal was planned so that when the water level rises, the water would flow into the Mathurajawela wetland zone. The roads that were supposed to allow water to flow into these swamps have been illegally occupied by some businessmen. Therefore, the government will take over all these areas and take action to
stop the flooding of those areas in the Gampaha District, said State Minister Nimal Lana.