Life style

An elephant dead on every day; extinction may not be that far away!

Published

4 years ago

2021/04/4

Rohan Wijesinha, Member of the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society subcommittee on Human Elephant coexistence

As reported in the media on March 25, the Secretary to the Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Conservation announced that 83 wild elephants had been killed in as many days. As at March 29, according to media reports, this number has now risen to 87. These are the number of carcasses that have been counted. Others may have crawled into the depths of the jungles to die, far away from the prying eyes of their tormentors. For, as the Secretary said, at least 50 of the 83 deaths had been caused by electrocution, the connection of mainline electricity to fences, and by hakka patas, explosives hidden in food items favoured by elephants that explode in their mouths when chewed on.

A census of wild elephants, conducted over six years ago, claimed that there were a little over 6, 000 left in the wild. In 2019, official records showed that 407 elephants and 122 humans fell victim to the human – elephant conflict (HEC); the highest number of deaths ever recorded. That figure may be dwarfed at the rate of attrition recorded this year, thus far. With the increasing, and illegal, clearing of their natural habitat, more and more populations of wild elephants are being displaced and are inevitably seeking sustenance in adjacent cultivations, placing those farmers and their families in danger; for let us not forget the human victims of this unfolding tragedy. Populations of wild elephants are not increasing, in fact, the opposite, but they are just being seen more as they desperately search for new refuges and sources of food.

Who are the real beneficiaries of electric fencing?

In a media report of March 27, the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) has found that in 2019 and 2020, a mind blowing Rs. 490 Million had been spent on electric fencing, in an attempt to reduce the conflict. It is clearly not working, and is due to the fact that most of these fences are in the wrong place; erected at the whims of politicians and not that of science, and commons sense; many separating Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) and Forest Department protected areas, with elephants on both sides of the fences.

Science, and the DWC, has provided a solution in the form of the National Policy for the Conservation of the Wild Elephant, which was passed by Cabinet. In addition, a National Human – Elephant Conflict Mitigation Action Plan (AP) was submitted to His Excellency the President, in December 2020, by a Presidential Committee appointed by him expressly to prepare this plan. Therefore, the AP which not only addresses human needs but is also based on science, takes into account elephant biology, ranging patterns and behaviour, and is available to the Government.

This plan proposes a paradigm shift in the way the Human – Elephant Conflict is addressed, based on pilot models that have operated successfully in the Galgamuwa area for the past eight years. Even with the demonstrated success of these pilot projects, the Government seems determined to pursue with the tested, and failed, model that resulted in this Rs. 490 million investment on ineffective fences at the wrong locations. Sadly, these science-based, practical solutions, that can save human and elephant lives, are just pieces of paper that lie on some Presidential or Ministerial shelf, yet to be acted on.

There is, however, a sacrifice that has to be made in implementing these solutions. It takes away the opportunity for politicians to exhibit their apparent powers of largesse; of gifting away the natural heritage of this country in exchange for votes, while placing those villagers in danger, and retreating themselves to the safety of Colombo where there is no HEC. Though the statistics show that this crisis has accelerated in the last 12 months, this erosion in wildlife conservation has been politically encouraged by all Governments who have held power in the last half century.

What do we bequeath to our children?

Sri Lanka, its policy makers and people, have to decide, and now, whether wildlife and forests are to be preserved for the next generation. For as a keystone species, the health of forests, and of other wildlife, depends on elephants. In addition, are we to leave our children fresh air to breathe and clean water to drink? For without forests, these vital necessities of life will be under threat.

In addition, wild elephants and wildlife are an important source of foreign exchange to this country that provide, and can provide even more, to those who have wildlife as neighbours. How then do we attract visitors to these shores? Come and see barren lands where exotic wildlife once used to be? Surely not.

This is not about party politics or anti-government propaganda; this is fact! Preserve Nature today, or it will kill us tomorrow. In the words of Lyn Margulis, co-president of Gaia (as in The Independent, 23rd October, 2011),

Life on Earth doesn’t need us. We are like other species. We cannot put an end to Nature: we can only pose a threat to ourselves.

All News Advertisement

Life style

Put your body at the top of your beauty agenda

Published

6 days ago

2024/12/1

Thilina Walpola

In a world where skin and hair care are often the main focus, maintaining a consistent body care routine is just as important—not only for looking good, but for overall wellbeing. That’s where The Body Shop Bath & Body Range comes in, offering everything you need to nourish and pamper your skin from head to toe.

From the basics (moisturisers and shower gels), the extras (hand and foot creams), right up to indulgent (body butters, yoghurts, and body oils) – what excuse have you for not loving and nourishing your body like never before?

It’s not just the assortment of bath and body products to choose from, it’s the Body Shop’s wide selection of flavours that will have your body spoiled for choice too! Choose from the legendary luxurious Shea Butter range (we recommend the Moisturising Body Butter), gloriously scented Strawberry selection (the Shower Gel is our fave), citrussy and vibrant Satsuma collection (we say start with the cleansing Face & Body Bar), the melt-in-the-skin goodness of the Moringa family (the Hand cream is a clear winner), or even the Almond Milk hydration heroes (psst…pick the Body Yoghurt).

With the year-end celebrations just around the corner, why not even share the gift of body-care? With far more than just a handful of products to pick from, and a little something for every skin type, you can check off most of your gift list already! The British Rose body care range will have one smelling like roses blooming in summertime (even when it’s winter and you’ve forgotten what sunshine feels like) and gives that beautiful body a healthy-looking glow.

The skin-loving formulas of The Olive body care products -infused with Community Fair Trade organic olive oil from Italy- with every refreshing squirt will almost instantly serve that Mediterranean glow-up and signature smile. The Body Shop’s not-so-well-kept secret of its Argan body care collection is like gifting a Moroccan hammam in itself. Or choose from the indulgently creamy and refreshing Avocado body care range for some head-to-toe pampering.

All products are made with over 90% ingredients of natural origin, certified by the Vegan Society, and sourced through the brand’s Community Fair Trade program—bringing some TLC not just to your skin, but to people and the planet too.

Why not get a head start on preparing your body for the most social season, and also get your hands on those festive gifts by visiting your nearest The Body Shop store?

Shop your old favourites or discover some new ones, at The Body Shop flagship store on Bagatalle Road, Odel in Alexandra Place, the Kandy City Centre, and the Colombo City Centre.

Life style

Can Prostate Cancer be cured ?

Published

6 days ago

2024/12/1

Thilina Walpola

Dr. Wong Siew Wei, from Parkway Hospital visited Sri Lanka to attend the Annual Academic Session at College of Oncology which was held recently at Galadari Hotel. He spoke on Prostrate and Lung Cancer in two symposium sessions to a large audience.

In an interview, Dr. Wong from Parkway Cancer Centre shared the cause, side effects and the varied treatment methods of advanced Prostrate Cancer He shared his view how robotics have influenced prostate cancer surgeries. Using the advanced surgical systems,miniaturized robotic instruments are passed through several small keyhole incisions in the patient’s abodomanto allow the surgeon to remove the prostate and nearby tissues with grat precision.Then the prostate is eventually removed through one of the keyhole incisions. Benefits of robotic surgery are less blood loss, less pain shoter hospital stay, faster recovery. The rates of major side effects from robotic surgery are about the same as as open surgical approaches.

Dr. Wong Siew

Can prostrate cancer be 100% cured?

With early diagnosis treatment of prostrate cancer is often highly curable. Many people diagnosed with prostate cancer can live a normal life when the cancer hasn’t spread beyond their prostrate for several years following treatment.

What is prostrate cancer?

According to Dr. Wong prostrate cancer develops in the prostrate, a small walnut shaped gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men.

Is prostate cancer, a serious disease and what are its symptoms?

In early stages, prostate cancer symptoms are rarely visible. But as the disease progresses, complicated symptoms may surface, making the patient uncomfortable . He will always be in discomfort and uncomfortable.

Some of the symptoms noticed are pain in the the lower pelvic area,frequent urination,trouble urinating, burning sensation or weak urine flow.Sometimes he may find it difficult to control his movements. Blood in the urine,painful ejaculation,pain in the lower back,hips or upper thighs or even bone pain are some of the symptoms.

There are several modifiable and non modifible risk factors that might affect the risk of prostate cance. Modiafiable factors can be the diet,obeisity,smoking,chemicalsubstances (men working in factories and sex transmitted infections. The non modifiable factors include age, family history. If the cancer is limited to the prostate it is considered as curable. If the disease has spread to the bones or elsewhere outside the prostate, it is considered stage 4 cancer, This is treated with pain medications,hormonal treatment, chemotheraphy,and radiopharmaceuticals,radiation and other targetted therapies. The outcome is associated with age and other associated health problems

Are prostrate problems always a sign of prostrate cancer?

Not at all. Not all growths in your prostate are cancer Luckily prostate cancer usually grows slowly. Most tumors are diagonised before the cancer has spread beyond your prostate >prostate cancer is highly treatable at this stage

There is another greater risk for prostate cancer,if you’re a black origin or of African ancestry. Family history is also one of the risk factor, this person is more likely to get prostrate cancer, family

Dr. Wong pointed out, screening can help diagnose prostrate cancer early. Most cancers diagnosed in the early stages can be cured with proper treatment.

Is prostrate cancer curable?

Finally Dr. Wong mentioned prostrate cancer awareness, coupled with early detection and advance in treatment, makes managing the disease more effective. Men should be proactive about their health, understand the risk factors, and a better quality of life. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and loved ones from prostrate cancer.

Life style

Ringing in the festive season with Italian pop star Matilde G and Sri Lankan DJ Rapa

Published

6 days ago

2024/12/1

Thilina Walpola

Matilde G (left) and DJ Rapa

Located on the unspoiled eastern coastline of Sri Lanka with the region regarded for lesser-known cultural and natural wonders, Sun Siyam Pasikudah invites guests to discover an extraordinary festive season filled with cultural charm, natural beauty, and unforgettable celebrations. Headlined by Italian pop singer and songwriter, Matilde G, and Sri Lankan DJ and music producer DJ Rapa, the recently refurbished resort that is part of the renowned Maldives-owned hospitality group Sun Siyam Resorts, is gearing up to deliver a December to remember said a press conferemce.

Guests are in for a big treat. On 21 December, Sun Siyam Pasikudah will host Italian pop singer and songwriter, Matilde G, based in Singapore, who has performed on major stages worldwide, earning the “MUSIVV Award 2023” in Dubai as the best singer residing outside the Middle East. An independent artist distributed by Universal Music Group, her music has garnered over 10 million streams and eight million YouTube views. Matilde has collaborated with Sun Siyam Resort in the Maldives and performed at high-profile events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix Singapore 2023, cementing her status as a rising international star.

Matilde G will also join again on Christmas Eve at Sun Siyam Pasikudah putting up a performance together with Sri Lankan multi-genre DJ and music producer DJ Rapa known for seamless blends and diverse sets, in celebrating the countdown with firework displays. Earlier that day, the hotel will also have a Xmas cookie-making class for kids and adults.

The release said on Christmas Day, guests can indulge in a delectable festive lunch before enjoying lively DJ sets by local talent DJ RAPA by the pool. As evening sets in, a BBQ dinner with live entertainment will set the stage for Santa’s much-anticipated arrival. Meanwhile, guests can savor a selection of cocktails during sunset at the Aqua Lounge, adding a magical touch to the celebrations.

As the year comes to a close, Sun Siyam Pasikudah offers a day filled with festivities. Children can kick off the celebrations with a fun-filled treasure hunt, while everyone can enjoy a relaxing DJ set by the pool. The evening features a grand New Year’s Eve gala dinner on the beach, culminating in a countdown to welcome 2025. To mark the start of the new year, guests and staff come together for a traditional Sri Lankan celebration, including a milk-boiling ceremony, followed by an authentic New Year’s breakfast that highlights the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Sun Siyam Pasikudah is known for its sustainable luxury hospitality, boasting over 34 individual villa rooms and some with private plunge pools. Each restaurant at the property serves as a gateway to the flavors of the island, whether it’s fresh seafood at the Beach Shack, an intimate dining experience at The Cellar, or Sri Lankan classics at the Tea House. It also has the biggest wine cellar in the Eastern coast. The resort also has a kids play area and a karaoke room.