The Government has stated that it will take necessary measures to ensure that programmes to remove unauthorised constructions in towns and along roadways will not adversely affect people’s livelihoods and will be done in a fair manner. 

Speaking to The Sunday Morning yesterday (15), Deputy Minister of Land and Irrigation Aravinda Senarath said that illegal constructions had become a serious problem and that the issue must be addressed if urban development was to move forward.

“If we are to implement our development plans, the city and road system must be free from unauthorised construction. Therefore, we have to make decisions regarding unauthorised constructions. However, we will not act in a way that is unfair to anyone,” he said.

He stressed that the Government was mindful of the impact such decisions may have on individuals and families.

“If the removal of any construction harms the livelihood of a person, we as a Government will definitely pay attention to the matter. People should not have unnecessary fear. We have come into power for them.”

In recent years, the issue of unauthorised constructions has drawn increasing attention across Sri Lanka, particularly in rapidly developing urban and suburban areas. 

Many of these structures have been built without proper approval, encroaching on road reserves, waterways, and State lands. Such developments obstruct planned urban projects, affect drainage systems, and pose risks to public safety.

The ongoing programmes to remove such buildings has faced criticism from long-time residents and small business owners who claim that demolitions have affected their livelihoods.