- The Weligama Coconut Leaf Wilt and Rot Disease caused by a vector called “Phytoplasma” is a disease which brings destruction to the coconut plantation. This was first reported from the Weligama area in Matara district in the year 2006. No decisive cure for the disease has yet been found in the world. The disease is prevalent in 12 Divisional Secretary Divisions in the Matara District, 02 Divisional Secretary Divisions in the Hambantota District and 02 Divisional Secretary Divisions in the Galle District and the authorities have taken all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease to other areas. The proposal made by Hon. Lakshman Kiriella, Minister of Plantation Industries, to continue the implementation of the project to control the spread of the disease, for a further period of 03 years from 2015 to 2017, was approved by the Cabinet.