But, people of the north are now felling their palmyrah trees and plant coconuts in their place, due to the economic value of the latter becoming several times higher.

During a tour in the Northern region, the 'Sri Lanka Mirror’ team witnessed felled palmyrah trees being burnt and coconut plants taking root there on a commercial scale.

Compared to a lifespan of 200 years for a palmyrah tree, a coconut tree lives only half that period.

Several decades ago in the north, the dowry in a marriage included palmyrah trees, but that tradition has died now.

In many areas, coconut trees are seen flourishing among the forms of broken Palmyrah trees damaged during the 30-year long war.

Special report from Jaffna...

(Pics : Kelum Shivantha | Shanika Jayasekara)