Online edition of Daily News - Features By Geethanjalie Selvendran, P.G., (Florida) and Catherine Mulvey (Columbia University) :"If solid waste is not managed properly now, harmful effects such as groundwater contamination from debris will pose great threats for Sri Lanka's drinking water source and to human health. In the immediate aftermath of the tsunami, the first priority lay in the rescue and recovery of its citizens. Now, over a month after the disaster, the wreckage is being cleared and preventative measures in the management of solid waste are needed to minimize contamination of grondwater sources. Potable water sources are at risk; we fear contamination is inevitable due to the enormity of the destruction and the required cleanup effort. however, immediate action to take the first steps towards proper solid waste handling will make a significant difference in keeping drinking water clean. These proper waste handling practices include the separation, removal, recycling, and safe storage of both vegetative and non-vegetative debris. " More
