Special task force to tackle Colombo floods

A special operations task force is to be established under the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to respond swiftly to flooding and other emergencies in the city, Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake has instructed.

The task force will comprise the Tri-Forces, Police and relevant government institutions to strengthen coordination and ensure a rapid response during emergencies.

The decision was taken at a meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat to examine the causes of recent flash flooding in Colombo and identify immediate and long-term solutions.

CMC officials told the meeting that around 129 mm of rain had been recorded within an hour on Friday, while the city’s existing drainage system was designed to handle only about 30 mm of rainfall per hour.

They identified the unusually heavy rainfall as the main cause of the flash flooding reported in several parts of the city.

The meeting also discussed short-, medium- and long-term measures to improve Colombo’s drainage network and strengthen its capacity to cope with heavy rainfall.

Officials said blocked drains and canals due to improper disposal of garbage had also contributed to flooding. They called for the immediate clearing of obstructed waterways and legal action against those responsible for illegal dumping.

Unauthorised constructions that have obstructed drainage canals and waterways were also discussed, with officials considering plans to remove such structures and relocate affected residents to suitable alternative locations.

A public awareness programme on proper waste disposal and maintaining clean waterways was also proposed.

Colombo Mayor Vraie Cally Balthazaar, senior government officials, representatives of the Clean Sri Lanka programme and senior officers of the Tri-Forces and Police attended the meeting.