PERCEPTION OF LAND RECLAMATION OF BACKHOE GEM MINING INDUSTRY IN RATHNAPURA DISTRICT, SRI LANKA

Abstract

1. Introduction With technological advancements, traditional gem mining methods have shifted to the mechanized backhoe mining technique, which poses significant environmental impacts. This study focuses on identifying land reclamation practices from the perspectives of backhoe operators and landowners, evaluating expected and successful cultivations on reclaimed mining lands, and addressing the problems faced by local communities near mining areas. 2. Research Methodology The population of the study consisted of the backhoe gem miners in Rathnapura district, and out of that selected fifteen backhoe operators, eleven landowners, ten villagers, an active officer of the Rathnapura National Gem and Jewellery Authority, and two officers of the Agrarian Service Center in Elapatha was the sample. The snowball sampling technique was used for data collection. An inductive approach to thematic analysis was used for data analysis using the qualitative method. Themes and codes were derived by identifying the repetitions of deep discussions. 3. Findings and Discussion Land reclamation is essential to reduce the number of abandoned lands. Some mine-closed lands are still not cultivated due to many reasons. Many landowners are expected to cultivate cinnamon crops on their lands because of the flood issue faced by landowners. The observed cultivated lands also do not have much yield, and all other lands are still recovering from 5 to 10 years without any usage. 4. Conclusion and Implications Technical support is needed to check the soil quality of mining lands. Strict and transparent regulations should be done by responsible authorities.