Colombo, Nov. 22 -- The Coconut Cultivation Board (CCB) has announced an increase in the compensation paid for coconut trees cut down in the Matara District due to the rapid spread of the coconut root wilt disease, commonly known as Weligama Wilt.

Under the revised scheme, Rs. 10,000 will be paid for each affected tree removed - a significant rise from the previous payment of Rs. 3,000.

CCB Chairman Dr. Sunimal Jayakody said that approximately 5,000 infected coconut trees are currently being felled and destroyed in the Matara District as part of the disease-control programme. He noted that although the disease has been largely contained in the Galle and Hambantota districts, several infected trees continue to be found in Matara.

Accord...