Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has warned that Sri Lanka must urgently prepare for the severe impacts of the El Niño–La Niña climate cycle, stressing the need for a modern disaster management framework to withstand recurring crises.
He made the remarks at Talpe Pattuwa, Matara–Hambantota, during the presentation of the Akthapathra to Venerable Sapugasyaye Dharmapala Thera upon his appointment as Deputy Chief Sanghanayake.
Premadasa said Sri Lanka has already faced five major tragedies, from the Easter Sunday attacks to the Iran war, and may soon confront a sixth challenge.
He noted that the Parliamentary Committee on Climate Change, which he co‑chairs with Professor L. M. Abeywickrama, is examining the issue, as experts predict unusually severe impacts this year, with forest fires already reported in France and Greece.
Premadasa cautioned that extreme weather could bring “severe drought followed by heavy rains, with both extremes occurring within short periods.” He added: “Whether these occur or not, as a country we must have preparedness. The disaster management framework must change.”
The Opposition Leader further stressed that Sri Lanka must move beyond reactive measures, drawing lessons from India’s Odisha state.
“Instead of merely responding to disasters, the country needs a new disaster management framework, new programs, even new institutions. We must build a country that can withstand recurring disasters,” he said.
He criticized the lack of progress since the 2004 tsunami, which claimed 40,000 lives, saying Sri Lanka had still failed to establish a modern disaster management system. He stressed that such a framework must involve state, non‑state, and civil society actors working together.
Highlighting economic vulnerabilities, Premadasa warned that bankrupt nations are susceptible to external pressures.
“International financial institutions and multinational corporations are attempting to exert influence. Therefore, as a country we must unite and face these challenges,” he said. (Newswire)