Meeriyabedda faces second landslide

First landslide killed 16 while 200 are still missing  

By Shantha Chandrasiri and Saman Palitha Nanayakkara  

The Meeriyabedda hills in Koslanda in Haldummulla where a massive landslide occurred a few years ago where 16 were killed and 200 are still missing is facing danger of a similar disaster, authorities said yesterday. 

 
Haldummulla Divisional Secretary K.A.G.Priyangika said on the recommendations of the National Building Research Organisation 778 families from landslide prone areas were evacuated and provided shelter in safer locations on Saturday night(14).   

She said relief officers of the Divisional Secretariat and the Wildlife Conservators evacuated people from the area amidst wild elephant threats in the dead of night.   

Meanwhile, Beragala –Haputale and Beragala –Wellawaya roads have also been noted for possible earth slips and rock falls. Police warned drivers to be cautious of possible danger.   
Extensive damage had been caused to five line houses at Theresa estate in Bagawanthalawa last morning.   

Asst. Director , Nuwara Eliya district Disaster Managment Centre Nimal Bandara said 30 occupants of the damaged houses were provided shelter in safer locations.   
He said steps were being taken to clear the mounds of earth and rocks.