Dikkale Forest Reserve Cleanup Marks Earth Day 2025 with Powerful Environmental Action
Makandura, Sri Lanka – April 26, 2025 — In a remarkable show of environmental commitment, a large scale cleanup of the Dikkale Forest Reserve was successfully carried out in honor of World Earth Day 2025. Located near Makandura in Sri Lanka’s Northwestern Province, the reserve became the focus of an impactful conservation initiative aimed at protecting its natural beauty and raising awareness about plastic pollution and sustainable waste management.
Organized Preparation for a Greener Future
In the lead-up to the event, the organizing team conducted detailed planning to ensure the success and safety of the cleanup. Volunteers were provided with gloves and garbage bags, and the forest’s most polluted areas were carefully mapped. An orientation session kicked off the day, educating participants about the cleanup’s goals, environmental responsibility, and proper waste segregation techniques.
Volunteers in Action
At dawn on April 26, 40 enthusiastic volunteers gathered at the reserve, ready to make a difference. Divided into teams, they systematically cleaned sections of the forest, removing plastic, polythene, and other non-biodegradable materials from underbrush and footpaths. Throughout the morning, the forest echoed with the sounds of teamwork and dedication as volunteers supported one another and promoted safe waste handling practices.Importantly, the volunteers worked with great care not to disturb native flora or wildlife habitats. The collected waste was sorted on-site into recyclable and non-recyclable categories, encouraging environmentally responsible behavior beyond the event.
Ensuring Responsible Waste Disposal
Following hours of rigorous effort, all waste was securely packed and handed over to the Pannala Municipal Council for proper recycling and disposal. This ensured that the collected materials would not re-enter the environment, maintaining the integrity of the cleanup.
Tangible Outcomes and Long-Term Impact
The Dikkale Forest Reserve saw a noticeable transformation by the end of the day. But the impact of the event extended far beyond visible cleanliness. The initiative successfully:
- Improved the health of the local ecosystem.
- Promoted sustainable practices among participants and the broader community.
- Highlighted the damaging effects of plastic waste.
- Installed two educational banners at the reserve to continue raising awareness.
These banners now stand as lasting symbols of the importance of environmental stewardship, reminding all visitors to respect and protect the forest.
A Shared Commitment to the Planet
The success of the Dikkale Forest Reserve Cleanup demonstrates the power of collective action. Volunteers of all ages came together with a shared mission to protect nature and build a cleaner, greener future. Organizers extended heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers, the Makandura Municipal Council, and all supporters who made the project possible. As the team emphasized, “This is just the beginning. Every day is an opportunity to care for our planet.” The initiative not only honored Earth Day but also ignited a renewed commitment to environmental responsibility throughout the community.
Project Leadership & Organizing Team
President: B. Sutharshan
Secretary: Udeshi Sandeepani
Vice President: Gavesh Kavinda
Project Heads: Dinithi Adhikari, Sehara Dewsini, Dhananjaya Dissanayake
Organizing Committee:
- Event Coordinators: Binuri Kaumini, D.M.R.A. Dissanayake
- Videographer: Sachintha Lakmina
- Photographer: E.P.K.P. Ethugala
- Public Speaker: Wishmi Raweesha Roopasinghe
- Content Writer: K.M.G. Lochana Amandani Sandani Koswaththa
