Save ancient Kumbuk trees in Kaudulla, Sri Lanka

1600 ancient Kumbuk trees along a tributary of Mahaweli river in Kaudulla, Sri Lanka have been marked by authorities to be cut down, citing flood prevention. It is understood that some timber merchants are taking the opportunity to make a quick buck at the expense of rare slow growing ancient native trees on the banks of this tributary. Cutting down these Kumbuk trees will not help in flood control. Authorities should use proper means for flood prevention such as renovating the degraded tanks and establishing marsh wetlands to absorb the spillover water. As concerned citizens, we urge relevant authorities to take immediate action to halt the destruction of these giant Kumbuk trees and preserve them for future generations.