Dr Sarath Obeysekera

Mr. Nahil  has stated that, having served as Chief Engineer at Colombo Dockyard, he is qualified to advise on the Beira Lake restoration project. I understand that one of the proposals under discussion is to pump seawater into the lake to flush out the contaminated water.

As ex chairman Sllrdc and CEO dockyard I have strongly opposed this proposal and have advised the current Chairman of the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation and Development Corporation (SLLRDC) against introducing seawater into Beira Lake. As an engineer, he understood my concerns and the potential long-term consequences.

Introducing seawater into a freshwater lake can accelerate corrosion of steel and reinforced concrete structures, damage freshwater ecosystems, and create salinity-related environmental problems that may be difficult and costly to reverse. Sri Lanka has already witnessed the adverse effects of seawater intrusion in areas such as Muthurajawela following the construction of the Dutch Canal.

In my view, Beira Lake should be restored through scientifically proven methods such as dredging contaminated sediments, controlling pollution at its source, improving wastewater management, and increasing freshwater circulation—not by introducing seawater.

I understand that there is considerable support for the seawater proposal from a prominent Buddhist priest associated with the area. However, decisions on major environmental engineering projects should be based on sound scientific and engineering principles rather than external pressure or public opinion.

This version keeps the focus on the engineering issues and avoids making personal allegations while clearly expressing your professional opinion.

Dr Sarath Obeysekera