Heavy rainfall: flood threat looms

By Leenah Wahab  

The Irrigation Department warned of possible floods  yesterday in the low-lying areas of Kuda Ganga and Madu Ganga valleys  in the Kalutara District.   

‘By analysing the current rainfall situation and river  water levels of Hydrological Stations in Kalu Ganga, it is warned that  there is a possibility of occurring a minor food situation,’ the  department said. Bulathsinhala, Maduruwala and Palinda Nuwara have  been named affected areas, and its residents and vehicle drivers have  been requested to remain alert in this regard, according to the  Department.  

Director General of the Disaster Management Centre Udaya  Herath said that steps are in place to implement long-lasting  strategies to control flash floods during the South-West Monsoon. 

“Rainwater harvesting, diversion systems, and elevating roads are outlined  in the ‘Disaster Risk Reduction’ mandate. Local authorities should also  be well-equipped to withstand harsh conditions. We have developed a  Disaster National Action Plan from 2023-2030 which is in the process of  being implemented. Our aim is to be proactive rather than reactive,” he  told Daily Mirror.  

“Heavy rain in the upper stream affects the downstream in a  matter of 1-2 hours. Innocent families are victimised in these  unforeseen situations,” Mr. Herath said. Early-warning systems are in  place to dispatch first- responders and alert the neighbouring community  in the event a flood reoccurs.