PM orders two-week drainage cleanup to prevent Colombo flooding

By The Pulseline News Desk

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has directed officials to complete the cleaning of canals and drainage systems across Colombo District within two weeks as authorities step up preparations for increased rainfall and seek to reduce the risk of flooding.

The directive highlights the importance of maintaining effective drainage networks to ensure the rapid discharge of rainwater and minimise the risk of waterlogging in vulnerable areas of the district during periods of heavy rainfall.

Amarasuriya issued the instructions yesterday (13) at the Colombo District Coordinating Committee meeting held at the Narahenpita District Secretariat. She also directed officials to ensure the regular maintenance of cleaned canals and drainage systems beyond the initial two-week deadline.

During the meeting, Divisional Secretariats, the Department of Agrarian Development and the Provincial Irrigation Department outlined challenges encountered in cleaning canals and drainage networks.

Officials also highlighted difficulties arising from a shortage of technical officers and obstacles encountered in preparing plans and cost estimates required for the work.

Addressing these issues will be important to ensuring that the drainage cleanup programme is completed on time and that the district is better prepared to manage increased rainfall.

While the immediate priority is to clear existing drainage systems, the Prime Minister also stressed the need for continuous maintenance to prevent the recurrence of blockages that could impede rainwater flow.

Meanwhile, the Colombo District Coordinating Committee reviewed development programmes scheduled for implementation across the district in 2026.

Officials provided updates on proposed projects covering several key sectors, including rural road development, community empowerment, disaster management and the promotion of sports.

The discussions also addressed implementation-related issues and sought to clarify matters concerning the planned development initiatives.