Sri Lankan turbine project fuels anger as fish hauls plunge
Mannar – 25 October 2026 08:48- AFP (Philippe ALFROY) 25 October 2026 Since they appeared six years ago, the Mannar wind in turbines in Sri Lanka have been blamed for a host of problems — from dwindling catches to floods, fuelling opposition to green energy projects as fuel costs soar Since they appeared six years […]
Mannar - 25 October 2026 08:48 - AFP (Philippe ALFROY) Six years ago, the wind turbines in Sri Lanka's Mannar region sparked a wave of discontent among the local fishing community. The turbines, owned by the state utility Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), have been accused of causing dwindling catches and floods, leading to growing opposition against green energy projects.
Fishermen claim that the turbines have disrupted water drainage and reduced fish populations, while local residents assert that concrete foundations and access roads have hindered rainwater drainage. The government aims to generate 70% of the country's electricity from renewable sources by 2030, including wind power, but has paused new projects in Mannar to address local concerns.
Despite the opposition, the turbines have already caused significant hardship for the residents, with Benedict Mary Vijiliya, president of the Women's Rural Development Society, reporting that their village, located near the turbines, faces flooded homes, damaged cattle and crops, and contaminated well water.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
