March 20, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Navy recently concluded a successful week-long expedition from March 10 to 17, focused on exploring and documenting several historically significant shipwrecks submerged off the coast of Colombo.
The operation was part of ongoing efforts to preserve the country’s maritime heritage while promoting it as a destination for both educational and eco-tourism.
The expedition aimed to assess the condition of various shipwrecks that lie beneath the waves, with notable inclusions such as the Coal Wreck, Chief Dragon Car Carrier, MV Astoria, MT Nilgiri, Thermopylae Sierra, MV Pecheur Breton, Taprobane East Wreck, SS Worcestershire, Toilet Barge, and SS Perseus, alongside a number of unidentified wrecks.
Among the most notable sites explored were the SS Worcestershire and SS Perseus, both of which were sunk during World War I, adding to the historical significance of these wrecks.
In addition to their historical value, wrecks such as the Chief Dragon Car Carrier and Thermopylae Sierra have evolved into vital artificial reefs, supporting diverse marine life and contributing to the region’s marine ecosystem.
A team of 14 diving officers and 15 diving sailors carried out the operation, employing a mix of atmospheric air and nitrox air mix as breathing gases, depending on the depth and duration of each dive. This approach ensured greater safety and operational efficiency, especially for the deeper dives required to explore these sites.
This initiative is part of the Navy’s commitment to the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme, which aims to protect the nation’s maritime environment while preserving its rich history beneath the waves.
These efforts not only enhance the educational and archaeological value of the shipwrecks but also contribute to the promotion of Sri Lanka as a unique and attractive destination for maritime and eco-tourism.
