Pilgrims to the sacred city Kataragama are facing difficulties, owing to the cutting down of several massive Kumbuk trees along the banks of the Menik River.
Residents in the area say It may affect existing water resources in the area. The Kumbuk trees provide shade to the pilgrims and retain water in the otherwise water-scarce Kataragama.
The objective, behind the tree felling, is to pave the way for a nearby helipad that would otherwise obstruct its landing path.
