Mannar stands at the frontline of a new conflict: the cumulative impact of large scale development projects, in particular the proposed wind farms. While renewable energy is crucial for Sri Lanka’s future, the approach and location of these projects should be carefully considered. Environmental concerns raise urgent questions about transparency, governance and survival for local communities.

For over 70 continuous days, the people of Mannar have maintained an unwavering protest against environmental threats -massive wind turbine projects and the imminent danger of heavy mineral sand mining. On September 26 protesters learned that wind turbines were being transported to the construction site and blocked its transport into Mannar. They were violently dispersed by police, followed by a second crackdown on September 28. Several protesters were hospitalised when priests and female demonstrators were beaten by the police, who filed a case in the Mannar Magistrate’s Court against nine protesters, including three who were injured in the assault.

To read the full story visit https://groundviews.org/2025/11/05/mannars-fight-against-destructive-development-and-ecological-injustice/

Photo credit: Mia Abeyawardene