September 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is preparing to strengthen its disaster preparedness network by establishing emergency response units at Divisional Secretariat level ahead of the expected deterioration in weather conditions with the arrival of the rainy season.
Environment Minister Dr Dhammika Patabendi said the proposed local centres would serve as frontline coordination points during emergencies and would work closely with the respective District Disaster Management Centres.
According to the Minister, arrangements are already being made to establish the new emergency disaster response centres across the relevant Divisional Secretariats, with the process expected to be completed within the next two weeks.
The initiative is intended to improve the speed and coordination of responses to incidents that could arise from heavy rainfall and other weather-related hazards.
Authorities are also planning to conduct preparedness exercises during the same period. Dr Patabendi said the drills would commence within the next two weeks, allowing officials and relevant agencies to test their readiness and strengthen coordination before potentially severe weather affects communities.
The measures are being introduced as part of efforts to ensure that local authorities are better equipped to respond quickly to emergencies and provide assistance when adverse weather conditions lead to disasters.
