Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
PM orders urgent clearing of Colombo drainage systems ahead of rains
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has directed government officials to complete cleaning of the capital's canals and drainage infrastructure within two weeks as the country braces for heavier rainfall in the coming period.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Dr. Amarasuriya issued instructions to accelerate maintenance work on Colombo's water drainage systems to facilitate unobstructed flow of rainwater during the anticipated increase in precipitation. Officials have been tasked with completing the comprehensive cleaning operation within a fortnight, with plans for regular ongoing maintenance thereafter.
The directive underscores concern about managing urban water systems as monsoon conditions approach. Proper drainage is critical to prevent flooding and waterlogging in the densely populated capital, where inadequate canal maintenance has previously contributed to drainage problems during heavy downpours.
The Prime Minister's intervention signals heightened focus on infrastructure maintenance ahead of the forecast weather shift. The two-week timeline has been set to ensure readiness before rainfall intensifies, with the understanding that regular maintenance schedules will continue beyond the initial clearing operation.
The instruction encompasses all major canals and drainage channels within the Colombo metropolitan area, with officials expected to mobilize resources to meet the accelerated completion deadline.