Weligama Divisional Secretariat building on the verge of collapse

By Sunil Dharmabandu 
de Silva - Weligama   

On a commemorative plaque, it is mentioned that the two-story structure was constructed as part of late President Ranasinghe Premadasa’s decentralization of administration initiative, and was inaugurated on 29th October 1992 by the then Minister of Home Affairs, Amara Piyasili Ratnayake.

Even the two pillars at the entrance to this two-storied building are stripped of their plaster, revealing iron rods underneath. The same condition can be observed in several areas of the ground floor.   

Signs that read ‘Caution: The building is unstable. Please refrain from staying in or around it’ are posted both outside and within the premises.   

As a result, several divisions that previously occupied the premises have been relocated.   

When questioned, T. L. N. S. Mendis, Divisional Secretary of Weligama, stated that the concerned authorities had been notified of the situation.   
Given the potential risk of loss of life, if the building collapses suddenly, it is the responsibility of the relevant authorities take to immediate measures to address the issue.