The continuous protest against the controversial Mannar wind power project came to an end after 105 days of demonstrations, with organisers stating they would pause their campaign in anticipation of promised government action.
At a special media briefing held at the protest site, Markus Adikalar, leader of the Mannar Citizens’ Forum, announced the decision to suspend the protest. Bishop of Mannar S. Gnanaprakasham joined the event, alongside long-time protest participants and representatives of local communities.
Adikalar told the gathering that the protest, which was launched over grave concerns that large-scale excavation linked to the wind power project would endanger homes, livelihoods, and the very survival of the people of Mannar Island, had reached a decisive moment following recent statements from the Sri Lankan cabinet.
He said that campaigners had “carefully examined” the announcement made by the Sri Lankan president and believed that their core demands were finally being acknowledged.
Adikalar said that protestors were “confident the Anura government would not grant permission for further excavation” of sand, and that the demonstration was therefore being halted on its 105th day. He expressed hope that the cabinet would soon formalise a national policy on Mannar’s sandy soil, recognising the island’s fragile ecosystem and the rights of its residents.
He further proposed the immediate establishment of a supervisory committee led by the district administrator and composed of local residents. Such a committee, he said, should oversee all project-related activity and ensure that nothing takes place without full community scrutiny.
M. Azeem, Chief Moulavi of the Mannar Murivithi Jumma School, also addressed the meeting and voiced support for the protestors’ demands.
Following the briefing, Adikalar and a delegation from the Citizens’ Forum submitted a detailed memorandum to Mannar District Government Officer K. Kanageswaran at the District Secretariat. The document outlined the community’s expectations and urged the state to honour its commitments.
The event concluded with the participation of the Bishop of Mannar, representatives of the protest committee, and members of the Mannar Citizens’ Forum.
Although the protest has been suspended, organisers stressed that they remain vigilant and ready to resume demonstrations if the government fails to uphold its assurances.
