Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake has instructed authorities to establish a special operations task force under the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to respond swiftly to flooding and other emergencies in the city.
The task force will bring together the Tri-Forces, Police and relevant government institutions to strengthen coordination during emergency situations.
The decision was taken during a meeting at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss the causes of flash flooding in Colombo and identify immediate solutions.
During the meeting, CMC officials revealed that approximately 129 mm of rainfall had been recorded within an hour on Friday, while the city’s existing drainage system was designed to handle rainfall of approximately 30 mm per hour.
Officials identified the unusually intense rainfall as the main cause of the flash flooding that affected several parts of Colombo.
The meeting also discussed short-, medium- and long-term plans to improve drainage systems and strengthen the city’s ability to withstand heavy rainfall.
Authorities identified blocked drains and canals caused by improper garbage disposal as another factor contributing to flooding.
Attention was directed towards urgently clearing obstructed waterways and taking legal action against individuals responsible for illegal waste disposal.
Officials also highlighted that unauthorised constructions within Colombo had obstructed several drainage canals and waterways.
The meeting discussed preparing 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. (Newswire)