Colombo, Sri Lanka, Oct. 22 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
* The preparation of a dedicated Dam Safety Act identified as an urgent national priority
A top level discussion on strengthening dam safety and downstream disaster risk reduction preparedness was held at the Ministry of Defence today (22 October), chaired by the Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), and convened by the Director General of the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
The meeting highlighted the urgent need to advance non-structural mitigation measures, with particular emphasis on effective early-warning arrangements for communities and areas downstream of dams. Participants discussed the importance of strengthening preparedness, improving coordination among responsible institutions, and ensuring that timely, reliable warnings can support prompt action to protect lives and reduce disaster impacts.
In his welcome and opening remarks, the Defence Secretary highlighted the timely importance of advancing the national dam safety programme, noting that the matter had also been discussed at the National Security Council. He further noted that the President had subsequently instructed the Ministry of Defence to conduct the programme.
The preparation of a dedicated Dam Safety Act was also identified as an urgent national priority. Participants emphasised the importance of establishing a clear and effective legal and institutional framework to strengthen dam safety governance, clarify responsibilities, and support coordinated risk management and emergency preparedness.
Dam owners and operators contributed practical inputs on operational requirements and priority actions for taking the programme forward. Their contributions will help shape an implementation approach that reflects national needs and the operational realities of dam management, while strengthening cooperation among all relevant stakeholders.
The discussion reaffirmed the importance of a coordinated, forward-looking national approach to dam safety, combining early warning, preparedness, institutional coordination and an appropriate legislative framework. The DMC will continue to work with relevant institutions and technical agencies to advance the programme as a matter of national importance.
The Director General of the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda (Retd), delivered a presentation outlining the proposed activities and highlighting the financial resources required for the future implementation of the programme. All participants agreed on the importance of implementing the proposed measures in the national interest.
Representatives of dam-owning and dam-operating institutions and relevant stakeholder agencies attended this event.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
