News Today: Nilgala Forest Reserve Now a Protected Biodiversity Zone

In a historic move aligning with World Environment Day, the Nilgala Forest in Bibila—a region steeped in legend and ecological significance—was officially declared a protected forest reserve. The announcement was made yesterday by Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabendi, marking a significant step in Sri Lanka’s efforts to conserve its natural heritage.

According to ancient folklore, Nilgala Forest was once a medicinal park during the reign of King Buddhadasa, a monarch famed for his knowledge of traditional healing. Spanning 40,485 hectares, this vast forest had faced severe degradation over the years, due to unchecked logging, deliberate fires, and the activities of forest racketeers.

Recognizing the urgency of preserving this biodiversity hotspot, Minister Dr. Patabendi, along with Director General of Forest Conservation Nishantha Edirisinghe, signed the official gazette notification that now places Nilgala under formal environmental protection.

This latest development, reported by News Today, is seen as a crucial milestone in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s endangered flora and fauna. Nilgala is home to countless species of plants, animals, and birds, many of which are endemic to the island. Environmentalists have long called for its protection, warning that delay could result in irreversible ecological loss.

Also in attendance at the declaration ceremony were Deputy Minister of Trade R.M. Jayawardhana and Ratugala Vedda Chief Suda Vanniya, underscoring the cultural and social importance of this forest to both the indigenous Vedda community and the wider Sri Lankan population.

As Sri Lanka moves toward stronger environmental governance, the protection of Nilgala Forest is expected to be a model for future conservation efforts across the island.