<p>Residents of Mullaitivu have raised concern over the increased activity of illlegal logging occurring near the town of Thunukkai.</p>
<p>The rate of deforestation within the area is increasing as residents have <em><a href="https://www.virakesari.lk/article/88671">reported </a></em>that the illegal logging takes place on a daily basis, including the logging of trees which have existed for centuries. The local population explained that the fallen trees are being illegally transported out of the area.</p>
<p>Environmental degradation is becoming more common throughout the North-East, as residents also raised concerns about the increased activity of illegal sand mining. Sand mining can lead to the reduction of farmland and the destruction of landscapes. Furthermore, sand mining increases the rate of deforestation within an area, which in turn leaves areas more prone to flash floods.</p>
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