An initial success for the Small Grants Fund in Sri Lanka

摘要

Illicit sand mining occurs in 30% of Sri Lanka's rivers, with damaging consequences for riverine communities.rnThe sand is highly valued by the construction industry but uncontrolled extraction causes bank instability and collapse and lowered river levels, with consequent threats to drinking supplies and to fishing and irrigation.rnWithout effective institutional oversight, mining activities are poorly regulated and national permit schemes are rendered ineffective by corrupt law enforcement staff who turn a blind eye to the illegal practices.