The Ambagamuwa Pradeshiya Sabha has still refused to grant the annual trade licence for 2025 to the Lonach Dairy Ltd., a subsidiary of Watawala Plantations PLC, reports say.
The decision comes as the farm has yet to complete proper waste disposal procedures, with approximately 40% of the process still pending.
Meanwhile, farm officials informed PS officers that wastewater from Lonach Farm is currently being transported via bowsers to another location for a fee.
However, uncertainties remain regarding the exact disposal methods and locations.
In response to earlier concerns highlighted by ‘Sri Lanka Mirror’ under the title, “Trade licence for Lonach farm, unrenewed over environmental concerns,” Lonach Dairy Ltd. issued a statement acknowledging issues related to water quality in surrounding waterways.
“We acknowledge concerns raised regarding water quality in nearby waterways. It is important to recognize that this area also hosts 30–40 small-scale dairy operations, and water quality is influenced by the collective practices of all establishments. While no conclusive findings have been established, Lonach Dairy continues to proactively engage with CEA and local authorities to conduct comprehensive, ongoing assessments. ” the statement notes.
“This collaborative approach ensures that any contributing factors – whether linked to us or others—are identified and addressed with appropriate measures. Like any evolving enterprise, we face challenges in balancing environmental, stakeholder, and community expectations. We remain confident in our ability to address these responsibly and to uphold the highest standards of accountability,” it adds.
“We have always cooperated fully with regulatory authorities and will continue to strengthen our environmental compliance policies in consultation with them,” the company further notes.
Respecting Lonach Dairy Ltd.’s right to reply, ‘Sri Lanka Mirror’ has published the full statement below.
The statement, however, has not addressed the matter of the refusal by the Ambagamuwa PS to renew their trade licence for 2025.
It has not also commented on previous legal matters, including allegations concerning the sale of tainted beef to butchers in the area.
Instead, Lonach Dairy Ltd. highlighted factors such as registration with the Board of Investment (BOI), an investment of over Rs. 03 billion, and the contribution of over 1,000 local farmers in their supply chain, raising doubts about whether the refusal is a deliberate attempt to sidestep the issue.
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