By: Pramod Chinthaka Peiris
Colombo (LNW): On this solemn day, December 26, we reflect upon the 19th anniversary of the devastating Tsunami disaster that struck Sri Lanka in 2004.
The indelible impact of this natural catastrophe lingers in our collective memory, serving as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the profound challenges faced by our nation.
The Tsunami, triggered by a powerful undersea earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, unleashed unprecedented waves that ravaged the shores of Sri Lanka and other countries in the Indian Ocean.
The catastrophic event claimed the lives of over 230,000 people, leaving behind immeasurable destruction and sorrow.
In Sri Lanka, more than 40,000 lives were lost, and countless families were displaced as waves pushed debris several kilometers inland, reducing buildings to rubble.
The aftermath was a testament to the resilience of a nation grappling with grief, loss, and the Herculean task of rebuilding.
Since that fateful day, December 26 has been declared “National Safety Day,” a poignant occasion when we join together to remember the lives lost not only in the Tsunami but also in various natural disasters.
As we observe a two-minute silence from 9:25 a.m. to 9:27 a.m., let us honour the memory of those who perished and express our solidarity with the survivors.
May the lessons learned from the Tsunami tragedy inspire us to prioritise safety, preparedness, and unity in the face of adversity.
As we commemorate this solemn anniversary, let us stand together in resilience and remembrance, fostering a spirit of compassion and support for those whose lives were forever altered by the relentless waves of 2004.
