Thousands joined protests against the use of plastic crates for the transportation of vegetables and fruits were held in Bandarawela, Ranna, Kandapola, Embilipitiya, Puttalam and Norochcholai on Monday and Tuesday.
Main road was blocked by protesting farmers |
Dambulla town centre turned into a battlefield as protesting farmers pelted stones at police, and passing vehicles.
Police used tear gas to disperse thousands of angry farmers who were protesting against new restrictions on vegetable transportation.
No change in policy
Meanwhile, Minister of Trade Johnstone Fernando has vowed that the decision to make use of plastic crates compulsory would not be revoked despite protests since the decision was taken following careful study to prevent wastage during the transportation of food items like vegetables and fruits.
The protests were sparked after the police detained forty vehicles carrying vegetable in gunny bags.
“We don’t have means to afford buying plastic boxes”, protesting farmers told the BBC.
We will not abide
The farmers say that it will cost them more as the plastic crates would need to be transported back from the market places to the farms.
President felisitated farmers |
“We refuse to abide by this rule, and demand a clear solution from government”, said another farmer protesting in Dambulla.
Two police vehicles were damaged by the protesters. Police say that they have arrested twenty eight protestors on public order offences.
Farmer felicitation at Temple Trees
Mahaweli farmers awarded trophies |
Meanwhile the president held a ceremony at Temple Trees to felicitate the Mahaweli Farming Community who contributed immensely for the prosperity of the country.
Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management, Nimal Siripala de Silva, Deputy Minister, W.B. Ekanayaka, and the Director General of Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, Gamini Rajakaruna participated on the occasion.