UNDP To Support Bar Reef Conservation Project
Bar Reef in Kalpitiya is the most bio-diverse coral formation in Sri Lanka, home to 156 species of coral and 283 species of fish, which survival is at stake due to human intervention.
This splendid place is at the stake of extinction and UNDP have come forward to support the healthy reef. This project will continue till 2021. 19.3 million Given by UNDP with the United States (US)-based Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL). The Bar Reef, located two kilometres off the coast of Kalpitiya, is also the largest coral reef and the largest protected marine area in Sri Lanka. It has previously survived two major bleaching events, poor fishing practices, pollution, and natural disasters, and is still one of Sri Lanka’s most valuable natural resources, the UNDP said. With the reef at the centre of a conservation effort through sustainable development and community participation, perhaps it can finally be restored to its former glory, the UNDP said.
Fishermen are ordered to stay away from the area, and its protection was reinforced by the Navy, Police, and the Divisional Secretary who do not allow anyone to cross those waters, the UNDP said. These efforts combined with support and instruction from UNDP, the Sri Lanka Navy, ORCA, World Vision and other organisations have, over time, made a remarkable difference to the health of the reef.
FAQs