Legal Win for Wilpattu National Park
After a prolonged 15-year legal process, Wilpattu National Park has received renewed protection following a ruling by the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka. The Environmental Foundation Limited (EFL), alongside key conservation partners, challenged the unauthorized opening of an illegal road that cut through the park.
On May 7, 2025, the State formally committed to halting public access of the road, which will only be accessible to armed forces and police hereon.
This outcome reinforces Wilpattu’s ecological importance as Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, known for its biodiversity and Ramsar-recognized wetlands. More importantly, it establishes a legal precedent that prioritizes the integrity of protected areas in national planning.
The decision marks a significant advancement in environmental governance and the long-term preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.
