Sri Lanka to explore and assess gem deposits

Nov 24, 2016 (LBO) - Sri Lanka's cabinet has decided to implement a project to explore and assess gem deposits in Sri Lanka within 2017 and 2021, a statement said. "It has been assessed that gem deposits are spread in around 70 percent of land in Sri Lanka but only 10 percent  of them are used in mining activities," a statement on approved cabinet decisions said. The proposed project will survey gem deposits in Sri Lanka and is planned with the view of introducing a comprehensive database with illustration on gem deposits, introducing proper methods for gem mining, and preparing guidelines for a sustainable gem mining industry. The proposal was made by President Maithripala Sirisena, in his capacity as the Minister of Mahaweli Development and Environment.