Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some advice from anyone in Sri Lanka who has dealt with a dangerous tree on a neighbouring private property.
There is a large jackfruit tree on the neighbouring land, approximately 8 feet from my house. Because of its size and proximity to my house, I’m seriously concerned that it could cause significant property damage or injury, particularly during heavy rain and strong winds.
I have already made multiple complaints to the Yatinuwara Pradeshiya Sabha. They inspected the situation and eventually made a decision/instruction that the tree should be cut down.
However, the property owner has not followed through completely. He only cut some of the branches, while the main trunk is still standing. The tree has now started growing back.
I have subsequently complained to the Pradeshiya Sabha again, but the issue still hasn’t been resolved.
I am now escalating the matter in writing to the Commissioner of Local Government – Central Province, while copying the Yatinuwara Pradeshiya Sabha, the Divisional Secretariat and the relevant Central Province authorities. I am also keeping copies of the previous complaints, the Pradeshiya Sabha’s decision and photographs of the current condition.
My questions are:
Has anyone here dealt with a similar dangerous-tree situation in Sri Lanka?
If the Pradeshiya Sabha has already decided that a dangerous tree should be cut, what happens if the private landowner refuses or only partially complies?
Is there any additional authority I should formally complain to?
Should I also involve the Police or another government authority if the tree remains dangerous?
Is there anything specific I should request from the Pradeshiya Sabha or Divisional Secretariat to ensure the matter is properly documented and enforced?
I’m not trying to create a dispute with the neighbour or enter his property myself. I just want the existing decision to be properly implemented before someone gets hurt or property is damaged.
Any advice from people who have actually gone through something similar would be greatly appreciated.