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GSMB to review excavation, quarrying

08 Jun 2021

By Buddhika Samaraweera   The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) has taken steps to determine whether soil excavation and rock quarrying-related activities in areas that have been designated by various institutions, including the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), as prone to landslides should be allowed to be continued. When inquired regarding the matter, GSMB Chairman Anura Walpola told The Morning that the risk of landslides due to soil excavations and rock quarries is being constantly investigated. He added that special attention is being paid to areas that have already been identified as landslide prone areas. He further said that the guidelines regarding the operation of rock quarries may be revised in the future as per the programme of the recently appointed Presidential Task Force for a green socio-economy. In view of the current situation of the Covid-19 pandemic, the GSMB has taken steps to issue permits online for soil excavations and rock quarries. Further, Walpola added that steps have been taken to extend the validity of existing licenses until 15 June. He also said that the GSMB would extend the validity of the licenses if the travel restrictions imposed by the Government to prevent the spread of Covid-19 are to be extended.  


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