Sand mining in river beds.

 Sand mining in river beds.

    Most of the rivers in south Asian region are polluted and most of the time neglected except for the purpose they serve as resources. The latest survey done by the Unit Nations indicates that around 750 millions people (living) by the rivers in Asia will be affected due to pollution. Sand mining in river beds and basins could be seen as a major polluter. Many flora and fauna beside rivers in Sri Lanka just like in any other country.

    The authorities have found out that sand mining is a threat to the entire biodiversity of Kelani River which had been the topic of environmentalists for long, should take precedence. Sand mining could increase the saline water intrusion, though it is a natural process which is said to happen twice a year.

    When sand miners in certain rivers exceed limit of the numbers of cubes recommended, some of them scoop the bed of the river to the impermeable layer, so it caused the seepage of water. This could keep many in thirst. When the level of water in the river naturally decreases, in a turn increases the temperature of the water. This could lead to many environmental issues where the accustomed species in the river such as fish and plants will get affected.