However it is reliably learnt that this information is being concealed intentionally due to pressure by the government.

During the past month this village has experienced two cave-ins on August 07 and 31.

On August 7, a house in the village was also buried in the cave in. The cave-in on 30th night had buried a large backhoe and lorry that was in operation, but the two drivers operating the vehicles were rescued by the tunnel construction workers.

An area in extent of around 500 feet has caved in causing extensive damage to surrounding trees and houses.

Residents point out that these houses in the vicinity face the threat of being swallowed by the cave in.  

Chinese obstruction to media

This project is being handled by a Chinese company and journalists who had gone to the area to cover this incident were obstructed by them.

It is reported that residents of 37 houses above the tunnel have already been removed and several other residents are also earmarked to be removed from the area.

This hydro power project to be built channelling water of the Kelani River, is expected to add 35 megawatts of power to the National grid.