The programme to plant mangrove saplings in the beaches was initiated by the Commander of the Navy intending to contain sea erosion.

Divisional Secretary of Velani, government officials, teachers, students and local residents joined hands with naval personnel to plant 1000 mangrove plants on the beach stretches surrounding the jetty in Kayt Island.

In another programme in Veditthaltivu 3500 mangrove plants were planted in the shores of the lagoon with the support of the Federation of Sri Lanka Small Fisheries and local residents. Naval personnel of SLNS Buwaneka,Thammanna, Gajaba, Pussadeva, officials of World Food Programme and Coastal Conservation Department were also present at the occasion. Commander Northern Naval Area Rear Admiral Piyal De Silva and Deputy Area Commander of North Central Naval Command, Commodore Upul De Silva were also associated with the programmes.

Mangroves help to protect the vulnerable coastlines from wave action as they hold the soil together and prevent coastal erosion. It also shields inland areas during storms and minimize damage. Mangrove forests provide homes for several species of plants and animals. It also acts as breeding ground for many varieties of fish as the protective environment provides perfect ground for the fish to spawn and the fry to grow before they enter the sea.