In parallel with the ongoing canal cleaning initiative in Wattala, a three-day environmental cleaning programme was launched on 29 January 2026 at Beach Park, Negombo, under the Livelihood Development Support & Waste Management Programme, with funding support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The programme was initiated to restore coastal and public spaces affected by recent flooding and environmental degradation, while also supporting the livelihoods of Informal Waste Collectors (IWCs) whose income sources were disrupted by the disaster. Through this initiative, around 40 IWCs were engaged under a cash-for-work approach, providing short-term income support while contributing to essential environmental cleanup activities.
The cleaning programme was organized in collaboration with the Negombo Municipal Council, with the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) also joining hands to support the initiative. The involvement of local authorities and technical agencies ensured that waste removal and coastal cleaning activities were carried out responsibly, with due consideration for marine and environmental protection.
Janathakshan played a key role in coordinating and implementing the programme on the ground, facilitating engagement with IWCs, liaising with partner institutions, and ensuring smooth execution of activities. The initiative not only helped improve environmental conditions at the Negombo Beach Park, a popular public and recreational area, but also recognized and supported the critical role played by informal waste workers in post-disaster recovery efforts.
This parallel intervention reflects a people-centered recovery approach, where environmental restoration and livelihood support go hand in hand, contributing to cleaner public spaces and strengthened resilience among vulnerable worker communities.
