Following a survey conducted in connection with the Kataragama Sacred Area, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) has requested that polythene garlands sold in the vicinity of sacred places be removed from use.

People who made a living by making garlands in the Kataragama area were given training through the National Crafts Council to produce paper garlands as a substitute for polythene garlands.

The Central Environmental Authority also pointed out that it is essential to control the use of plastic and polythene in all sacred areas of the island.

Accordingly, this programme is scheduled to commence from the 22nd of this month at the Kataragama Sacred Area.

Sarojini Jayasekara, Director of the Solid Waste Management Unit of the Central Environmental Authority said that an agreement was reached with the garland manufacturers for this purpose