November 23, Colombo (LNW): The National Building Research Organisation has confirmed that Sri Lanka Army teams in Beragala are continuing efforts to stabilise and clear the area struck by yesterday’s (23) tragic landslide in Pahala Kadugannawa, with engineers working through challenging terrain to restore a measure of normality.
Authorities have ordered a 24-hour closure of a stretch of the Kandy–Colombo main road near Ganethenna, after experts warned that the ground remains highly unstable. Kegalle District Secretary Jagath M. Herath appealed to motorists to avoid the area altogether, noting that the ongoing repair work and risk of further slips make travel unsafe.
Motorists have been advised to use several alternative routes linking Colombo and Kandy, including those via Kurunegala, Karandupana, and Mawanella. Travellers may also pass through Hemmathagama and Rampala, or follow the Mawanella–Ganewatta Junction–Kovil Kanda route to Pilimathalawa. Officials cautioned that delays should be expected as traffic diversions take effect.
With thousands of students due to sit the G.C.E. A/L examination tomorrow, special transport arrangements have been organised through Mawanella and Kadugannawa depots to ensure candidates can reach their exam centres safely. Education officials stressed that no student should be impeded by the disruption.
The District Secretary also urged the public to refrain from visiting the disaster site, emphasising that the area remains perilous. Police have been deployed to seal off the affected section of the road, and entry will be strictly prohibited until stabilisation work is complete.
The landslide, which struck with little warning, claimed six lives. Emergency crews have since concluded rescue operations, though recovery and reinforcement efforts are expected to continue over the coming days.
