Don't Wait, Grab Your Certificates and Evacuate for a Week and a Half – Irrigation Director Urges Again

 After holding a press conference on the potential flood risk from the Kelani River overflowing, Director General of Irrigation, Mr. Ajith Gunasekara, who appeared on Derana TV, reiterated warnings about the current disaster situation, stating that delaying decisions could impact lives.

Based on his experience, his views on what should be done at this time are as follows: 

"Currently, we are experiencing very heavy rainfall. Therefore, what we are stating at this moment is based on a scientific analysis conducted using the flood level at the Avissawella water gauge and our past experiences. If the water level there reaches the specified mark, it will affect the Colombo area in this manner, that's what we are saying.

So, generally, if we analyze scientifically and consider areas, could the Director General tell us which areas are at the highest risk? Also, could he specifically mention, 'Residents in these areas should be extra vigilant'?

The highest risk is for the low-lying areas of the Kelani River. Especially those residing in the lowlands on both sides of the river, for example, areas like Kohilawatta, Kotikawatta, Wellampitiya, and Totaḷanga, are almost always exposed to this severe risk.

So, I urge you to take your young children, valuable vehicles, and especially important documents like educational certificates to safe places beforehand. While it takes very little effort to move these, their value is immense. Therefore, instead of just watching the risk, it is my opinion that it is better to prioritize your safety and the value of these belongings and dedicate yourselves to this task.

If you keep thinking and watching, it might be too late. Typically, based on my experience, it will take at least a week to a week and a half for the areas affected by this flood to return to normal."

The video of his full speech click here