The ban will come into force from February 1.

The order was given yesterday following an inspection tour by the President who is also the minister of Mahaweli (River) and Environment.

Likewise President Maithripala Sirisena has instructed his officers from the ministry to submit him a report on the locations in the country that are suitable for sand mining as well as sensitive to digging.

The President has also ordered no mining for foreigners or foreign companies to be allowed with any pending applications to be cancelled immediately.

He also ordered the installation of a Committee to monitor and recommend sensitive areas where mining can be harmful to both the environment and reservoirs in the country while closing the door on the proposed mining site at the environs of the Moragahakanda reservoir.

The president has in the meantime instructed his officers to ensure that the production of office furniture should also be carried out on an income generating level between the State Timber Corporation and the Mahaweli and Environment Ministry.