Due to adverse weather conditions in Sri Lanka, there is a risk of the stone embankment along Nilwala river in Matara Attudawa area breaking, which could lead to flooding in Matara city. To mitigate this risk, more than 100 soldiers from the 61st Infantry Division of the Sri Lanka Army initiated an operation to strengthen the embankment. This operation has been ongoing throughout the night and into the morning.
Currently, over 2,500 families have been displaced in various areas of Matara district, including Malimbada, Akurassa, Kamburupitiya, Thihagoda, Attuduwa, Matara Fort, and Gal Bamma. The Sri Lanka Army, Navy, and disaster relief teams, led by the Army Commander, are working tirelessly to provide immediate relief to these affected families.
Four food processing centers have been set up in Malimbada, Akurassa, Thihagoda, and Matara Fort to provide food and drinks to the displaced people. Distribution of these essential supplies is being facilitated using Army WMZ armored vehicles, Unicorn vehicles, and trucks in the flooded areas.
Furthermore, Sri Lanka Army medical teams are prepared to offer support to regional secretariats in disaster-prone areas of Galle, Matara, and Kalutara districts. Two army battalions comprising over 500 soldiers have been deployed to Matara and Galle districts.
Additional divisions, such as the 58th Division and Gamunu Watch (GW), are on standby for disaster relief operations in the Kalutara district. Diving teams from the Sri Lanka Army Special Forces and Commando Forces are also prepared for immediate deployment when necessary.
Residents living along other rivers in the Southern province, including River Kalu, River Nilwala, and River Ging, are advised to remain vigilant for flash floods or flood situations.
The 61st Brigade of the Sri Lanka Army, along with regional secretariat divisions and other government agencies, is coordinating disaster relief efforts. If needed, the soldiers of the 58th Brigade are also ready for deployment, and naval and air force troops are on standby for deployment as required.
Defense Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne and Chief of Defense Staff General Shavendra Silva are providing necessary instructions to the armed forces commanders and local government bodies overseeing these relief operations. These efforts are being conducted under their full supervision.
