He said Sri Lanka's coral reefs had been significantly affected by ecological degradation, making it rare for him to encounter such a large coral reef in the area in recent years.

"I felt surprised and excited to discover the coral, and I was sure a large and beautiful coral reef would grow here in a few years," he said.

After Piyal told the port city about his discovery and coral nursery plan, the authorities gave immediate support by providing all the needed materials. They also invited experts from the Chinese Academy of Sciences to conduct underwater surveys and guide coral cultivation.