He emphasised that laws on environmental conservation should be further solidified. He said that no one should be allowed to exploit environmental resources irrespective of their status.

The President requested the institutions concerned to submit a report after an intensive study on the possibility of using the sand resources in this area in the future. He also requested to submit a report on the suitability of the areas for sand mining and, as an alternative the possibility of using sea sand.

President Sirisena also gave specific instructions to relevant officials not to let any foreign national or a foreign company to mine gems in Sri Lanka. He said the government is not ready to bestow local gem industry to foreign companies and instructed the officials to refuse any such requests received for gem mining He also requested the officials of National Gem and Jewellery Authority to immediately stop gem mining in Moragahakanda reservoir and its premises. In the event any politician or businessmen attempts to damage the environment, the President as the Minister of Environment requested the officials to bring them to his notice.

The President also appointed new officials to the institutions under the Mahaweli Development and Environment Ministry.

Some of the officials who were appointed to the Mahaweli Authority and affiliated institutes, Marine Environment Protection Authority, State Timber Corporation, Gem and Jewellery Research Institute are as follows:

Gamini Rajakaruna , Director General of Mahaweli Authority,

P.D.A.Jayathilake,  Chairman of Central Engineering Consulting Bureau.

R.B.Meegahawatte (Attorney-at-Law), Chairman, Marine Environment Protection Authority

Dr.Harsha Samaraweera, Chairman, Sri Lanka Mahaweli Consultancy Bureau (Pvt) Ltd.

Nawaratna Bandara  Alahakoon, Chairman, National Gem and Jewellery Authority