Steps have been taken to protect the Konkatiyawa Forest as a reserve as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen wildlife conservation and preserve critical habitats for elephants and other wild animals.
The initiative is being implemented in conjunction with World Environment Day under the “Vanaspathi” national program, which focuses on protecting wildlife lands and creating enrichment zones for animal habitats.
The Konkatiyawa Reserve Forest, located in the Kebitigollewa area of the Anuradhapura District within the Padaviya Divisional Secretariat Division, covers approximately 30.73 hectares.
Authorities describe the forest as a dry zone evergreen ecosystem consisting of dense forest cover, scrublands, and grassland areas.
Environmental officials state that the forest possesses significant ecological value due to its rich biodiversity and diverse range of plant and animal species.
The area has also been identified as an important catchment and nutrient zone supporting local water sources.
According to the Ministry of Environment, the period between 2025 and 2026 is expected to mark the largest expansion of protected forest reserves in Sri Lanka’s history, reflecting increased efforts to strengthen environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.
