Contents Page 1.0 Introduction 02 2.0 Brief Profile of the Officers of

Contents

Page

1.0 Introduction 02

2.0 Brief Profile of the Officers of the DMC 04

3.0 Main Programmes 06

4.0 Mitigation and Technology Division 08

5.0 Training and Public Awareness Divison 12

6.0 Preparedness Planning Division 13

7.0 Emergency Operation Centre 15

08 Multi–Hazard Early Warning Dessemination 17

9.0 United Nations Development Programme assistance to Disaster Risk

Management in Sri Lanka 18

9.0 Performance of District Disaster Management Coordinating Units 21

Annual Report 2008

Disaster Management Centre 2

Disaster Management Centre

Annual Report 2008

1.0 Introduction

The national focal point for all Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) activities is the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), which is functioning under the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights (DM and HR).

The Disaster Management Act No. 13 of 2005 was enacted in the Parliament in May, 2005. In the process of implementing provisions of the Act, several shortcomings in the legal framework were identified which affected the smooth implementation of DRR activities. Therefore, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights obtained approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to amend the Act. Consultants were appointed with the financial assistance of UNDP to prepare draft amendments.

In order to implemnt the DRR programme in the country, Disaster Management Committees were established at districts, divisional, pradashiya saba, and grama niladhari levels. The DMC structure was designed to include District Disaster Management Coordinating Units (DDMCU), under the guidance of the District Secretary, to implement activities at the sub–national level. The DDMCU consists of a DM Coordinator and several Assistant Coordinators. This sub–national level mechanism was proven to be effective in coordinating all DMC activities within and between district boundaries.

Community level volunteer groups were formed at the grama niladhari level for preparedness and emergency response activities in areas prone to floods, landslides, cyclones, tsunamis, and other hazards.

Under the comprehensive DRR study, a team of experts from JICA undertook to develop Flood Management Plans for Kelani, Kalu, Nilwala, and Gin river basins. In addition, community early warning, capacity building, and mock drills were carried out for floods, landslides, and coastal hazards.

As per the Disaster Management Act, the following hazards come under the purview of Disaster Management:

1. Floods 2. Landslides 3. Industrial Hazards 4. Tsunami (Seismic Wave) 5. Earthquakes 6. Air Hazards 7. Fire 8. Epidemics 9. Explosions 10. Aid Raids

11. Civil or Internal Strife 12. Chemical Accidents 13. Radiological Emergency 14. Oil Spills 15. Nuclear Disaster 16. Urban and Forest Fire 17. Coastal Erosion 18. Lightning strikes 19. Tornadoes 20. Thunder Storms

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Social Services

Home Affairs

Health

Defence

Power

Coast Conservation

Housing

Irrigation

Science and Technology

Rehabilitation and Reconstruction

Police

Land

Fisheries and Aquatic Resources

Education

Highways

Water Supply

Urban Development

Foreign Affairs

Finance

Environment

Ministers in charge of

Chief Ministers

Opposition Leader

5 Opposition MPs

National Council for Disaster Management

Chair Person: H. E. President Vice Chairman: Hon. Prime Minister

Minister of Disaster Management andHuman Rights

Ministers in charge of

DMC

Vision

Safer communities and sustainable development in Sri Lanka.

Mission

To create a culture of safety among communities and the nation at large through systematic management of natural, technological, and man–made disaster risks. Objectives Through countrywide administrative structures such as, ministries, departments, public corporations, provincial councils, local government, districts, divisions, and grama niladhari administration, to enforce, coordinate, and monitor activities related to:

Hazard Mapping and Risk Assessment; Information management; Long–term disaster mitigation; Early warning and information dissemination; Preparedness to respond in the event of disasters; Emergency Operations Management; and Management of the post-disaster activities.

In July, 2005, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) was established under the National Council for Disaster Management (NCDM). As mandated by the Act, the National Council for Disaster Management (NCDM), chaired by H. E. the President is the apex body for disaster management. Composition of the National Council

1.1 The Organisation In order to achieve objectives outlined, the DMC appointed a Director General, four Directors, five Deputy Directors, nine Assistant Directors, and subordinate staff at the national level, 22 District Disaster Management Coordinators (DDMC), and 95 Assistant Coordinators at the district level. Most offices of District Disaster Management Coordinators are housed in the office of the District Secretaries.

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Disaster Management Centre (Director General)

National Consultants

Personnel and Administration Media Finance

24 x 7 National

Emergency Operations

Centre

Training, Education and Public Awareness

Preparedness Planning in

Colombo

Multi-Hazard Early warning Dissemination

District Disaster Management Coordination Units (DDMCU)

National Level

Tech. Com. in each division

Disaster Management Technology,

Mitigation

Structure of the Disaster Management Centre

2.0 Brief Profile of the Officers of the Disaster Management Centre Considering the main functional divisions in the DMC organisational structure such as, Disaster Mitigation and Technology, Emergency Operation, Training and Awareness, Preparedness Planning, Early Warning, Administration and Finance, the filling of cadre positions progressed as follows: Director General Maj. Gen. Gamini Hettiarachchi (Retd.)

MA in English and Administration (Sabaragamuwa) Dip. in Human Resources Management – NIBM

Director (Technology and Mitigation) Mr. U. W. L. Chandradasa MSc Civil Engineering Dip. in Water Supply and Waste Water Treatment – Middlesex Polytechnic (UK)

Director (Preparedness Planning) Mrs. Lalani Imbulana BSc (Engineering) – Moratuwa Master of Engineering (Water Resources Management, The Netherlands)

Director (Training and Public Awareness)

Mr. S. M. K. B. Nandarathne MA Sociology (University of Bombay) MA Buddhist Studies (University of Kelaniya)

Director (Emergency Operations) Brig. N. B. Weragama (Retd.) BSc in Science (University of Peradeniya) MSc (Def) in Management (KDA)

Deputy Director (Personnel and Administration)

C. D. J. Weerasena BA

Deputy Director (Emergency Operations)

Mr. K. P. A. Dharamarathna BCom (Special) – Peradeniya, Sri Lanka PGD in Community Development

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Deputy Director (Emergency Operations)

Col. Keerthi Ekanayake – USP

Deputy Director (Finance) Mr. D. A. Gunapala – DPFM – SLIDA Deputy Director (Media) Mr. W. A. Sarath Lal Kumara – Dip. in Mass

Media Assistant Director (Information Technology)

Mr. Srimal Samansiri BSc, PGD (RS/GIS) ACS

Assistant Director (Training and Public Awareness)

Mr. Palitha Bandara BSc, MPhil

Assistant Director (Training and Public Awareness)

Miss. A. A. A. K. K. Senevirathne – BSc. Geology (Special), Civil Engineering (Part I and II), MSc (Water Resources and Environment Management) Netherlands, PGD in Human Resources Management, Diploma in International Relations

Assistant Director (Early Warning) Mr. Menake Wijesinghe BSc in Natural Science

Assistant Director (Early Warning) Mr. K. A. D. P. K. Kodippili BSc in Agriculture (Hons.) Special

Assistant Director (Early Warning) Mr. J. M. A. R. Jayarathne BSc in Agriculture, MSc

Assistant Director (Emergency Operations)

Maj. W. J. M. Nawarathne (Retd.) BA, PGD (Criminology), Dip. in English

Assistant Director (Preparedness Planning)

Mrs. Sriyani Jayasundara BA, PGD (Writer–ship and Communication), MA (Mass Communication)

Administrative Officer Mr. V. S. Hettiarachchi BA (University of Colombo)

Personal Assistant to DG Mrs. Chandrika Attigala

2.1 Human Resource Management Initially, in 2005, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) established Disaster Management Coordinating Units in ten districts with staff released from Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, and STF). Senior level military and Police officers were appointed as Coordinators in each district while junior officers were placed to assist them. The Navy withdrew its officers in 2008 due to their commitment in military operations. Meanwhile, the DMC appointed 16 civilian Coordinators and 95 assistants for 16 Districts Disaster Management Coordinating Units (DDMCU) to assist District Secretaries to coordinate disaster management activities. The DMC trained all Coordinators and assistants on Disaster Management. Furthermore, refresher training programmes have also been conducted on a regular basis.

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3.0 Main Programmes 3.1 Sri Lanka National Disaster Management Policy The Draft National Policy document was discussed at agency and ministry levels and the amended Policy was submitted to the National Council for concurrence. 3.2 National Disaster Management Plan The Draft National Disaster Management Plan has been discussed with stakeholder agencies and the fourth draft was circulated among District Secretaries and Chief Secretaries for their comments. 3.3 National Safety Day 2008 Commemoration of the National Safety Day 2008 was held in Kandy in collaboration with the District Secretariat and Provincial Council. Members of the National Disaster Management Coordinating Committee (NDMCC) extended their fullest support by sponsoring floats, prizes for school children, prizes for journalists, and others. Live coverage of the entire programme was captured through electronic media to improve awareness of the general public on the sense of safety and the significance of disaster management in the daily life of the general public. A two–day training workshop on Disaster Management was also conducted in association with the University of Peradeniya to mark the National Safety Day commemoration. A number of disaster mitigation projects were initiated in the Kandy District to coincide with National Safety Day.

VIsS observing the National Safety Day Parade on the 26th December, 2008, in Kandy 3.4 Advisory Committees 3.4.1 Technical Advisory Committee The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) met in 2008 to formulate the ‘Guidelines for Construction in Disaster Prone Areas’. A team of professionals from academia, technical agencies, and professional bodies work as members of the Committee. Guidelines for construction in areas prone to landslides, tsunami, floods, and cyclones are being developed. 3.4.2 Emergency Response Committee Members of the Committee comprise of representatives from Armed Forces, Police, General Hospital Colombo, Fire Brigade, NWSDB, CEB, Telecom, and other relevant agencies. The Committee met once in three months under the chairmanship of the Director General, DMC and reviewed preparedness of agencies to respond to a disaster.

Annual Report 2008


3.4.3 National Disaster Management Coordination Committee There are a number of Government organisations, international non–governmental organisations, and non–governmental organisations working in the disaster management field and in some areas it was observed that activities are duplicated. Therefore, the DMC, after discussing this matter with the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights and with the assistance of United Nations Development Programme Sri Lanka, established a coordinating mechanism named the National Disaster Management Coordinating Committee (NDMCC), which was established in September, 2007, in line with the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA). The NDMCC is chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights and provides a national platform to review activities implemented by all stakeholders in disaster management sector. NDMCC’s roles and responsibilities include:

• Addressing inter–related social, economical and environmental problems; • Supporting the identification of urgent needs in the area of Disaster Risk Reduction

(DRR) and finding resources; • Working towards better resourced, effective, and integrated DRR efforts amongst all

stakeholders; and • Acting a catalyst for national consultations and consensus building in DRR activities.

The NDMCC met eight times in 2008 under the chairmanship of the Secretary of Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights.

3.4.4 Colombo Flood Mitigation Committee The Committee, chaired by the Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights, is represented by the District Secretary, all Divisional Secretaries, Local Authorities in the Colombo District, SLLR and DC, Irrigation Department, UDA, Land Use Policy Planning Division, Department of Agrarian Development, CEA, DMC, and the District Disaster Management Coordinator. The following were the main issues discussed at the meeting:

i. Unauthorised filling of wet lands, paddy lands, canal reservations, and others; ii. Unclear responsibility of maintenance of some canals and drains; iii. Disposal of solid waste into the canal system; and iv. Financial constraints of maintenance.

4.0 Mitigation and Technology Division 4.1 Introduction In the 2008 budget, Rs. 145 million was allocated to undertake mitigation work, in order to minimise the impact of various disasters. Project proposals were submitted by Local Authorities and Divisional Secretaries through the District Secretary. A total of 60 projects were implemented through District Secretaries. The main focus has been to mitigate the

Annual Report 2008


impact of floods in Colombo, Kalutara, Gampaha, and Puttalam Districts. The summary of funds allocated is as follows:

Item Description District Amount in Rs. Mn

01 Flood mitigation projects such as canal cleaning, culvert improvement, and others

Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Badulla, Hambantota, Puttalam

85.19

02 Improvements to evacuation routes and roads to withstand frequent flood damages

Ratnapura, Kalutara 31.99

03 Projects to minimise loss of lives due to animal attacks

Kurunegala, Matara 11.00

04 Supplying drinking water and establishing water schemes to mitigate the impact of droughts

Kalutara, Kegalle, Ampara, Badulla

10.98

05 Landslide mitigation activities, studies, and removal of rocks

Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Ratnapura, Kalutara

10.72

06 Minimising health hazards Colombo 2.6007 Project to minimise the impact of

cyclones and strong winds on buildings

All island 0.72

4.2 Flood Mitigation Programme District Secretaries in Colombo, Gampaha, Ratnapura, Kalutara, and Hambantota have identified floods as the most devastating disaster in the recent past and suggestions were made to urgently clean canals. Mitigation work that commenced in 2007 continued in 2008 to complete work. As a result of canal cleaning projects, the impact of floods in Kolonnawa, Bandaragama, and Colombo Central was minimal in 2008.

Item Description of the Project District Division Cost Rs in mn

01 Clearing of canals in Waskaduwa Kalutara Panadura 5.0002 Dredging Weras Ganga to facilitate storm

water drainage Colombo Moratuwa 5.43

03 Rehabilitation of Thekkagas Ela Gampaha Ja–Ela 1.2204 Protection of Yodawewa sluice gate and

Weerawila Tank bund to avoid a dam breach and floods downstream of the dam

Hambantota Tissamaharamaya 28 .00

05 Rehabilitation of Kepu Ela Kalutara Bandaragama 4.2606 Rehabilitation and dredging Bindunu Ela Kalutara 0.7007 Rehabilitation of canals Gampaha Biyagama,

Kelaniya, Wattala, Gampaha

14.80

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08 Cleaning Paru Ela near Dankotuwa Puttalam Nattandiya 2.0509 Rehabilitation of Mutwal tunnel Colombo Colombo 4.8410 Cleaning the canal in Kohuwela Colombo Dehiwala 3.7311 Rehabilitation of Barawa Ela Kalutara 0.3012 Improvement to drain in Nelum

Mawatha upto Bolgoda River Kalutara Panadura 2.44

13 Construction of drain from Ganga Ihala Road to Galle Road

Kalutara Panadura 0.25

14 Cleaning canals in the Moratuwa Municipal Council area

Colombo Moratuwa 0.48

15 Rehabilitation of Manikgoda Ela Kalutara Matugama 0.6916 Improving culverts on Hadigalla

Dickhena Road Kalutara Palindanuwara 0.55

17 Digan Ela and Parappu Ela rehabilitation Kalutara Beruwala 2.8918 Cleaning Pinarawa and Aluth Ela canals Badulla Badulla 0.2719 Rehabilitation of Kunupelalla Ela Badulla Badulla 0.1320 Construction of Kadduwa Megahagoda

Ela Matara Matara 0.37

22 Improvement drainage systems at the Pelawatte junction

Kalutara Walallawita 3.37

23 Cleaning canals, erecting side retaining walls in Atapattukanda

Matara Mulatiyana 0.61

24 Cleaning Pathiragoda Ela and Meda Ela Colombo Maharagama 0.4025 Rehabilitation of drainage system near

Rangers’ Ground Kalutara Kalutara 1.96

4.2.1 Improvement to evacuation routes and roads The Ratnapura town and some areas in the Kalutara District experience annual floods that severely impact the road network. The DMC assisted Ratnapura and Kalutara Districts to rehabilitate roads and drains that are constantly affected by floods. Most of these roads are used to evacuate affected people and supply relief items to victims.


01 Mitigating the affect of landslide along the Athweltota–Digana Road

Kalutara Agalawatta 2.60

02 Improving evacuation routes of flood prone areas in Horana and Ingiriya

Kalutara Horana, Ingiriya

4.50

03 Minimise damages to the road network including drains due to floods

Ratnapura Ratnapura 14.49

Annual Report 2008


4.3 Drought Mitigation activities


01 Implementation of water distribution facility at Udawela Wilegoda

Kalutara Agalawatta 0.8

02 Construction of water supply scheme Kalutara Agalawatta 15.503 Construction of water supply scheme Kegalle Deraniyagala 10

4.4 Mitigating hazards caused by animal attacks Increasing number of incidents of elephant and crocodile attacks on people was reported over the last few years. The DMC funded projects to establish an electric fence in the Kurunegala District and safe bathing places in Nilwala River to mitigate the affect of animal attacks on people. Work commenced in 2007 and continued in 2008. No incidents of crocodile attacks have been reported since establishment of safe bathing areas.


01 Construction of 15 km long electric fence to close the gap of the existing fence from Mahasiyambalagamuwa to Madukanda

Kurunegala Polpitigama 4.0

02 Construction of safe areas for bathing and washing in crocodile infested Nilwala River to mitigate animal attacks

Matara Matara, Thihagoda, Malimbada, Akuressa

7.0

4.5 Landslide mitigation activities, studies, and removal of unstable boulders Upon a request made by District Secretaries, funds were provided to National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) to study landslides in Hanguranketha and Walapane Divisional Secretariats and to make recommendations to mitigate impacts. The NBRO assisted the Haguranketha DS to select suitable sites for resettlement and subdivision of land. Unstable rock outcrops in Kandy and Eheliyagoda were removed ensuring the safety of people living downside of boulders.

Item

Description of the Project District Division Cost Rs in mn

01 Extended study to Geo Hazard in the Matale District associated with ground subsidence and its effect on tectonic behaviour of Victoria shear zone.

Matale Matale, Ukuwela 4.2

02 Geo Hazard investigations to study 400 landslide vulnerable sites identified by the GA and prepare an action plan to

Nuwara Eliya

Walapane Hanguranketha

2.7

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mitigate the effect of landslides. 03 A pilot project in landslide affected

areas to establish drainage systems, minimise soil erosion through better land use practices with the participation of communities and school children.

Nuwara Eliya

Hanguranketha, Walapane

3

04 Removal of rocks Ratnapura Eheliyagoda 0.27505 Contour Survey at Jonsland,

Hanguranketha Nuwara

Eliya Hanguranketha 0.378

06 Removal of rock boulders Kandy Harispattuwa 0.03507 Removal of rocks Kandy Hataraliyadda 0.02508 Removal of rocks Kandy Medadumbara 0.011

4.6 Development of Hazard Maps The DMC has recognised the importance of developing Multi–Hazard Risk Maps for Sri Lanka. As an initial step, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), Coast Conservation Department (CCD), Irrigation Department (ID) and the Department of Meteorology (DoM) were given the responsibility of developing Hazard Maps for landslides, coastal hazard including tsunami, floods, and cyclones, respectively, for which the UNDP is providing financial assistance. A methodology for preparation of hazard maps was agreed with all stakeholders at a workshop organised by the DMC with the assistance of UNDP.

The DMC signed MOUs with NBRO to develop Hazard Maps for landslides in Nuwara Eliya and Galle Districts and CCD to develop Hazard Maps for coastal hazards including tsunamis. 4.7 Other Activities The DMC provided Rs. 2.6 million to the Panadura Urban Council to dispose of urban waste collected near the railway station, creating serious health hazard in the Panadura town and a nuisance to railway commuters. Upon completion of waste removal, the Panadura Urban Council erected a fence to prevent the use of land to dump waste.

5.0 Training and Public Awareness Division 5.1 Introduction The Training and Public Awareness Division is responsible for conducting training and public awareness programmes for internal staff, Government agencies, and other organisations such as INGOs/NGOs and academic institutions, and for communities. As a result of the catastrophic tsunami in 2004, the stakeholder interest for training and awareness programmes has increased. Thus, from 2006 onwards, the DMC paid more attention to training and public awareness programmes with the objective of saving lives and properties of communities who are vulnerable to major hazards. Most of these programmes were organised and conducted by the DMC with its own funds while some programmes were conducted upon the request of other organisations such as the Ministry of Health, National Cadet Corp, academic institutions, and others.

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5.2 Training Programmes

• An Induction Training Programme was conducted on the 07th and 08th August, 2008 at Rural Development Training Centre, Pilimatalawa, for newly recruited DMC staff; and

• A two–day training programme was conducted on ‘Information Technology and Geographic Information Systems’ for Assistant Directors and Assistant Coordinators of the DMC on the 03rd and 04th November, 2008.

5.3 Awareness Programmes

• A one–day awareness programme on DMC’s role in DRR was conducted for Medical Officers of the Central Province. The programme was organised by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya and held at the In–Service Training Centre, Gannoruwa on the 21st July, 2008;

• A presentation on the role of DMC in Disaster Management was made at the District Secretary’s Conference held on the 28th August, 2008;

• A one–day awareness programme on the Disaster Risk Management Framework in Sri Lanka was conducted on the 18th September, 2008, for Social Service Officers, Land Use Policy Planning Officers, and Vidatha Centre Officers of Kurunegala District;

• An awareness programme on ‘Role of Police in Disaster Management’ was conducted for Police Officers of the Ratnapura District on the 03rd October, 2008; and

• DM Coordinators organised and conducted a number of programmes such as, awareness on different hazards, early warning dissemination, community hazard mapping, evacuation drills, and others, at the district level.

5.4 Other Activities of the Training Division

• Inauguration of a Resource Centre with a wide range of information, educational, and communication material related to Disaster Management is another key achievement. Through this centre, DMC was able to acquire and store a good number of publications for the benefit of those who are interested in pursuing disaster management studies;

• Coordinated and facilitated the National Disaster Management Coordination Committee (NDMCC) meetings during the year;

• Facilitated Quarterly Progress Review Meetings of District Coordinators, as a part of the Monitoring and Evaluation System introduced by the Centre;

• Facilitated training for 22 staff members by sending them for overseas training; and • Facilitated the 2009 Annual Planning workshop, held on the 29th and 30th December,

2008, at the National Institute for Cooperative Development (NICD), Polgolla, Kandy.

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6.0 Preparedness Planning Division 6.1 Introduction One of the main tasks of the Preparedness Planning Division was the development of Disaster Management Plans for all districts, DS Divisions, vulnerable Grama Niladhari Divisions, and other organisations as specified in the Disaster Management Act 2005. Preparation of District Disaster Preparedness and Response Plans commenced in year 2007, initially in high risk districts and continued onto 2008. 6.2 Preparation of Disaster Preparedness and Response Plans 6.2.1 District Level Disaster Preparedness and Response Plans A Disaster Preparedness Plan is a useful document, which provides the framework to respond to disasters if and when a disaster occurs. The District Disaster Management Coordination Committee is the main management body of disasters in a district. The members of the Committee, and sub–committees and their roles and responsibilities are listed in the Plan. These Plans also contain baseline data of the administrative area, hazard and vulnerability assessment of the hazards prevalent in the area, contact details of focal points, resources available in the area and responsibilities of different stakeholders involved in disaster response, and other details. In December, 2008, the Kandy District Plan was distributed among the District Disaster Management Coordination Committee members. Draft Plans for 11 districts (Anuradhapura, Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Matale, Ratnapura, Puttalam, and Kurunegala) were prepared and final workshops were conducted in these districts to present the Plan to the district committee members. Data and information collection for Trincomalee and Batticaloa Districts were carried out during the year and the draft Plan was prepared by the District Disaster Management Coordination Units of these two districts. Preparation of Plans did not commence in the Northern Province due to security issues that prevailed in the area in 2008. 6.2.2 Divisional Plans for Disaster Preparedness for Response Similar to District Plans, preparation of Divisional Plans commenced in 2007 through conducting awareness programmes in the most vulnerable divisions. In 2008, initial and final workshops were conducted in 69 Divisional Secretary Divisions (DSD) and draft Plans were prepared for 28 DSDs. 6.2.3 Grama Niladhari Level Preparedness Activities In the most vulnerable Grama Niladhari Divisons, preparedness activities were conducted by the District Disaster Management Coordination Units of the DMC. These activities are as follows:

• Awareness on prevention, preparedness, and mitigation of hazards;

Annual Report 2008


• Preparation of the Hazard Map showing risk areas, evacuation routes to safe locations, and others;

• Formation of disaster management committees and sub–committees; • Providing training on first aid, camp management, and other aspects; • Providing early warning dissemination equipment such as, megaphones, sirens, and

rain gauges; and • Conducting mock drills.

Evacuation mock drill in a landslide prone Hazard Mapping exercise in progress village, Ratnapura District In the year 2008, funds were allocated to conduct Grama Niladhari level preparedness activities in tsunami affected areas in Ampara, Batticaloa, Colombo, Galle, Gampaha, Hambantota, Jaffna, Kalutara, Matara, Puttalam, and Trincomalee Districts. Preparation of community level Hazard Maps commenced in 176 vulnerable villages. Mock drills were conducted in 60 GN Divisions where Hazard Maps were completed. 6.3 Capacity Building of Local Authorities for Emergency Response During past disasters it has been observed that Local Authorities (LAs) were not sufficiently equipped with suitable machinery and equipment to respond to different emergency situations. Even sharing available resources with other LAs was not possible due to very limited resources available. In this context, the DMC took initiatives to provide Local Authorities with equipment such as, backhoes for landslide prone areas, water bowsers for drought prone areas, and gully emptiers for areas where tsunami housing projects were established to empty septic tanks, which were creating health hazards in these housing schemes. During 2008, arrangements were made to purchase nine backhoes, three water bowsers, and two gully emptiers to distribute among LAs in disaster risk areas. In December, 2008, the DMC delivered nine backhoes and orders were placed to purchase other items. 6.4 School Disaster Safety Programme The School Disaster Safety Programme commenced in vulnerable schools in districts prone to disasters, by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the DMC, National Institute of Education, and the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ). The main goal of this programme was to introduce disaster safety to the school, thereby, increasing disaster resilience and creating a culture of safety among the school community.

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The School Disaster Safety Programme consists of development of a Hazard Map for the school, conducting awareness programmes, formation of committees, providing first aid training, conducting evacuation drills, amongst others. Under this programme, a draft School Disaster Safety Manual was developed and several discussions were held with officers from relevant organisations to finalise it. 7.0 Emergency Operations Centre 7.1 Introduction The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) was established in 2006 and continued to function in 2008 on 24 hours a day, seven days a week basis. The EOC receives weather related information and early warning messages regarding impending disasters, from technical agencies. The DMC disseminates the message to the general public through its early warning network and monitors the situation continuously. It collects and maintains all information on natural and manmade disasters throughout the country and coordinates emergency response and relief. Daily preparation of situation reports, which is distributed to all media institutions and to the Ministry, is also a responsibility of the DMC. In the event of a natural or manmade disaster, the DMC coordinates rescue operations, mobilises resources, and coordinates emergency relief operations with the support of the Police, Armed Forces, and other relevant stakeholders, to ensure quick evacuation and efficient distribution of relief items. The Centre continues to function with a skeleton staff available at present. 7.2.1 Emergency response for floods In 2008, floods affected Sri Lanka on several occasions. A major flood occurred during the first week of June, 2008, affecting Kalutara, Ratnapura, Colombo, Gampaha, Kegalle, Galle, Matara, Puttalam, and Nuwara Eliya Districts. Approximately 93,000 families were displaced and 23 deaths were reported, with the Kalutara District being the worst affected. Two teams from District Disaster Coordinating Units from Matara and Hambantota were sent to Kalutara on the 02nd June, 2008, to assist in relief operations. The DMC coordinated with Joint Operation Headquarters and provided 14 motor boats and rescue teams from the Navy. Two Air Force helicopters and Army troops were deployed for search and rescue operations and relief distribution. Dry rations were received from World Food Programme (WFP) and other relief items were received from INGO/NGO, and well wishers, which were distributed among affected families through District Secretaries.

Evacuation of flood victims in Matara Distributing relief items in Kalutara

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A flood occurred between the 10th and 31st March, 2008, in Ratnapura, Badulla, Gampaha, Kandy, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Ampara, Vavuniya, and Moneragala Districts. Around 96,204 families were affected and four deaths were reported. Minor floods also occurred from the 24th April to 02nd May, 2008, in Kalutara, Ratnapura, Colombo, Gampaha, Kegalle, and Galle Districts. Around 9,692 families were affected and nine deaths were reported. In addition, a minor flood occurred from the 20th to 25th October, 2008, in Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam, and Kurunegala Districts. Around 24,500 families were affected and five deaths were also reported. The EOC coordinated with the Police and Armed Forces and stakeholders to provide boats, helicopters, and deployed rescue teams in affected areas to ensure quick evacuation and efficient distribution of relief items. Water pumps were distributed to clean polluted water wells and water purification plants were established in inundated areas. Dry rations and relief items were collected and distributed to affected communities with the assistance of WFP, UNICEF, UNOCHA, UNHCR, IOM, INGOs, NGOs, and well wishers.

7.2.2 Emergency Response in the Northern Province Major floods and strong winds were experienced in Jaffna, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Kilinochchi, Trincomalee, Moneragala, Kandy, and Matale Districts in December, 2008. Around 128,504 families were affected and 11 deaths were reported. The EOC coordinated emergency response activities with the Policw and Armed Forces. The Army helped in transporting 49 2” diametre water pumps, 200 gas cookers, and 10,000 one litre bottles of water to Jaffna. UNICEF, UNHCR, WFP, UNESCAP, UNOCHA, Red Cross, IOM, and NGOs have been supporting the DMC continuously in disaster emergency response and relief distribution activities. A threat of a tropical cyclone in Northern and Eastern Provinces was forecasted by the Department of Metrology during the first week of December, 2008. Awareness and preparedness activities were carried out for vulnerable communities in Batticaloa, Ampara, and Trincomalee. 7.2.3 Emergency Response for Manmade Disasters The DMC identified the need of establishing a unit to respond to nuclear, radiological, chemical, and biological accidents consisting of first responders from the Security Forces, Ministry of Health, and Fire Service Department. The Atomic Energy Authority of Sri Lanka conducted a one–day training programme on the 26th August, 2008, for selected first responders. 7.3 National Radiological and Nuclear Emergency Response Plan The DMC coordinated to develop a National Radiological and Nuclear Emergency Response Plan in collaboration with the Atomic Energy Authority and completed the second draft of the National Plan.

Annual Report 2008


7.4 The National Emergency Response Committee Meeting The National Emergency Response Committee met on several occasions in 2008. Issues regarding coordination matters were discussed and resolved. 7.5 Disaster Information System (DesInventar) The DesInventar database has records on disasters that occurred since 1974. This is a joint effort by the UNDP Sri Lanka and DMC. The EOC updates the DesInventar database daily. Public may view and obtain information on past disasters via the website: www.disinventar.lk 8.0 Multi–Hazard Early Warning Dissemination 8.1 Introduction The DMC is responsible for the dissemination of early warning messages received from technical agencies and ensuring that the Early Warning (EW) messages reach people in remote villages prone to disasters, in time to evacuate to safe locations. A mix of the latest technology, as well as traditional systems, is being promoted by the DMC to have multiple systems in early warning dissemination. 8.2 Early Warning Towers The DMC has planned to establish Early Warning Towers under the ‘Disaster Management Communication and Response Capacity Development Project’ in 2008. A total of 25 towers were erected in the following ten districts and communities living around the tower were made aware of its functions:

District Number of Towers Erected in 2008

1. Colombo 2. Gampaha 3. Kalutara 4. Galle 5. Matara 6. Hambantota 7. Ampara 8. Baticaloa 9. Trincomalee 10. Puttalam

02 02 02 03 03 03 03 03 03 01

On the 17th April, 2008, the DMC commenced broadcasting weather forecasts for the coastal area around Hikkaduwa using the Hikkaduwa Multi–Hazard Early Warning Tower. Weather updates were disseminated in the morning and evening during the year. 8.3 Early Warning Dissemination Exercises In the month of July, under the ‘Comprehensive Study on Disaster Management’ funded by JICA, an island wide evacuation drill was conducted involving seven districts covering all major hazards.

Annual Report 2008


Evaluators were placed at several locations to assess various stages of the evacuation exercise. A follow–up workshop was also conducted involving DMC staff with District Coordinators to identify gaps and areas needing improvements. 8.4 Strengthened Systems for Early Warning Message Dissemination A total of 437 megaphones were distributed among Early Warning Committees of vulnerable villages through District Secretaries and Police stations of disaster prone districts in the island. Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Disaster Management and Human Rights graced this occasion on the 02nd September, 2008. The equipment is useful to enhance early warning capacity of Committees and Police to disseminate the message to vulnerable villages in time. 8.5 Launching of Disaster Early Warning Dissemination System (DEWN) Dialog Telekom PLC, in collaboration with Microimage and the University of Moratuwa, developed a system known as Disaster Early Warning Network (DEWN) to disseminate early warning messages using mobile telephones and alarm devices. Messages could be sent through SMS and cell broadcasting technology. This is a very successful private public partnership where DMC and Dialog Telekom PLC signed a Memorandum of Understanding to use the privately owned network to disseminate early warning messages for the benefit of the public. This arrangement enhanced the early warning capacity of the DMC substantially. A full–day training programme on DEWN was conducted by Dialog Telekom PLC in collaboration with Microimage and the University of Moratuwa on the 30th October, 2008, for DMC staff and District Coordinators.

Alarm Device DEWN system was launched for emergency communication on the 06th December, 2008 9.0 Assistance of United Nations Development Programme 9.1 Introduction The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through its Disaster Risk Management Programme, has been supporting the DMC to implement a wide range of disaster risk reduction activities across the country since the inception of the DMC.

Annual Report 2008


9.2 Main activities under UNDP funding 9.2.1 Technical assistance to the DMC During the year, UNDP provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights to initiate the revision process of the Disaster Management Act of Sri Lanka. In addition, technical assistance was provided to develop the Restructuring Plan for the DMC. Both initiatives are still ongoing. 9.2.2 Strengthening Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) National 24/7 EOC and District EOCs have been further strengthened with required hardware resources. The support has been given to refurbish District Disaster Management Coordinating Units in Anuradhapura, Badulla, and Kurunegala Districts. 9.2.3 Training and Awareness Training and awareness programmes undertaken include:

a. Basic First Aid – 1,200 three–wheeler drivers and 230 officers of the Community Police Unit were trained on how to transport victims of disaster and traffic accidents to the nearest medical facility;

b. The Water Resources Board was supported to establish a number of disaster risk reduction models like efficient irrigation systems, a live fence and a biogas unit in their Training Centre in Anuradhapura. DRR components were explained to visitors by WRB staff using models;

c. An animation was developed to create awareness on landslide risks; d. A video film was developed on the success of the Colombo Disaster Management

Coordination Unit in developing partnerships for promoting risk reduction activities in the district; and

e. ‘Snakes and Ladders’ board game on four hazards (landslides, floods, lightning, and drought) was developed in all three languages to create awareness among children.

9.2.4 Integration of landslide hazard maps into village level development plans A holistic landslide risk reduction approach was piloted in the Badulla District that brought together District Planning Unit, agriculture related agencies, and the Land Use Policy Planning Division. Hazard Maps developed by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) were strengthened and sustainable land management practices were developed and adopted. This is the first time landslide maps were used in development planning at the village level. 9.2.5 Solutions for Human Elephant Conflict (HEC) The Ministry of Environment was supported to develop a sustainable fencing system for HEC affected areas. The intervention was to pilot test a live fence system (using different plant varieties) to augment standard electrical fences that have about five years’ lifespan. Pilot projects were conducted in Nawagaththegama in the Puttalam District and Buttala in Moneragala District with community participation. Planting trees was completed and the survival rate exceeded 85 per cent. The community is involved with watering and maintenance of plants. 9.2.6 Drought Risk Reduction

Annual Report 2008


Two drought risk reduction pilot projects were implemented by constructing a feeder canal connecting five small tanks using the spilt water from the Udawalawe Agriculture Scheme and constructing 45 shallow water ponds for marginalised farmers in Siyambalanduwa in the Moneragala District. The first project helped to cultivate 350 acres of paddy land in both seasons, most which were abandoned due to shortage of water. 9.2.7 Climate Change Adaptation The DMC, in collaboration with UNDP and the Rice Research and Development Institute (RRDI), implemented a successful adaptation project in Kattakaduwa and Nelum Wewa villages in the Puttalam District. The pilot project helped to test and improve traditional varieties of rice to meet challenges of salinity. The project benefited farmers in the area to bring their yield from almost nothing to 50 bushels per acre. 9.2.8 Establishing Green Belts to Reduce Impacts of Coastal Hazards Coastal Green Belts were established on the eastern coastal belt in Ampara, Batticaloa, and Trincomalee Districts. Total length of the green belt is 16 kilometres and is expected to mitigate the impact of tsunami sea surge. 9.2.9 Small Grants to Vulnerable Communities Under the UNDP funded programme, 30 Community Based Organisations in five tsunami affected districts (Ampara, Batticaloa, Hambantota, Matara, and Trincomalee) were provided with small grants to implement environmentally friendly, disaster risk reduction activities related to livelihoods.

10.0 Performance of District Disaster Management Coordinating Units No. District Preparation

of District Plan

Preparation of Divisional and

Pradeshiya Sabha Plans

Awareness Programmes and

Trainings

Capacity Building, Mitigation Projects and Major Response Activities

01 Ampara In progress 22 GN level initial Preparedness Plans are in progress

05 Community awareness programmes 03 School awareness programmes

Response Activities: - Coordinated and distributed emergency tool kits and food items among the disabled in nine GN areas during the flood in December, 2007 and January, 2008 - Evaluated the existing Early Warning Tower in Maruthamunai - Formation of town guards, in order to respond to urban fire, theft, ethnic clashes, and natural hazards Mitigation Activities: - Korean funded environment projects were completed in Kalmunai and Irakkamam Divisions and projects are in progress in Addalaichenai, Alayadivembu, Damana, and Uhana Divisions.

02 Anuradhapura Editing final draft

Data collection is in progress in all divisions 08 Divisional level initial workshops were completed 08 DS Plans were completed

03 School first aid trainings

Mitigation Activities: - Screen testing of communities to mitigate CRF in the Padaviya Division. - Safe drinking water project and treatment of dental fluoride project in two schools are in progress. - Construction of a safety fence along Kendewa MV, Anuradhapura is in progress.

Annual Report 2008


03 Badulla Submitted to the DMC for printing

06 Divisional level initial workshops were completed

03 School awareness programmes 03 Community awareness programmes 01 Art exhibition

Mitigation Activities: - Establishing rain gauges in Passara and Koslanda national schools. - Development of landslide mitigation approaches through Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing data is in progress. - Rehabilitation of Pinarawa and Kunupelella Ela in Badulla is in progress

04 Batticaloa Drafted and submitted to the DMC for printing

Preparation of 06 DS Plans are in progress 11 GN Plans are in progress, of which data collection for 07 GN Divisions was completed

03 School first aid trainings 02 Community awareness programme, first aid trainings and mock drills at the GN level 01 Mobile awareness programme was conducted

Response Activities: - Coordinated the emergency flood situation on December, 2007 and March, 2008. Awareness was created among affected communities to prevent spreading of communicable diseases. - Six locations have been identified to construct Early Warning Towers. Mitigation Activities: - Five projects are in progress under the Korean funded environmental project.

05 Colombo Finalised and given for printing

03 DS level initial workshops were conducted 01 DS Plan submitted to the DMC 02 GN level initial workshops completed

06 School awareness programmes 07 Community awareness programmes 02 Community mock drills 03 Fire fighting trainings

Mitigation Activities: - Fire hazard mapping is in progress - Surveying of Weras Ganga, Kelani Ganga, and Kittampahuwa - Mapping canals, lakes, and water retention marshes in Thimbirigasyaya, Dehiwala, Ratmalana, and Moratuwa DS Divisions. - In order to mitigate urban flood situation following cleaning projects have been undertaken - Cleaning of Katu Ela, Mattakkuliya Ela in Crow Island, Mutwal Tunnel, Bellanwila Ela, Aluthmawatha Ela, and Weras Ganga were completed

Annual Report 2008


- Cleaning of Pathiragoda Ela and Meda Ela in the Maharagama Division was completed - Dredging canals around Field Avenue in Kohuwela - In order to increase protection of the shoreline against coastal erosion, protection of human lives and properties against natural hazards, and preserve scenic beauty of the coastal environment, tree planting projects were conducted in Mount Lavinia, Wellawatta, and Moratuwa coastal areas. - To reduce hazardous situations arising from improper solid waste management and prevent it from turning disastrous in time to come, the solid waste management project was conducted in the Ratmalana DS Division. Response Activities: - Coordinated emergency response activities during floods from April to June, 2008.

06 Galle Finalised and given for printing

07 Disaster Response Plan workshops completed

117 Awareness programmes 45 Evacuation drills 02 Outward bound trainings 01 Fire fighting training 01 Camp management training

Response Activities: - Responded to a train accident that occurred in the month of June and a landslide in the Sanghamitta GN Division. Mitigation Activities: - Cleaning minor canals in Malewanna GN Division.

Annual Report 2008


07 Gampaha Finalised and given for printing

15 GN level initial Preparedness Plans are in progress including initial awareness programmes

Identification of vulnerable areas in Biyagama and Negombo 01 Evacuation drill in the Malwana town 03 Community awareness programmes 01 School awareness 01 Boat riding training for village level volunteers

Mitigation Activities: - Cleaning of one Canal in Biyagama, five canals in Wattala, one in Katana, and two canals in Ja–Ela are in progress - Rehabilitation of Thekkagas Ela was completed - Planting trees along the coastal belt is in progress Response Activities: - Coordinated emergency response activities during the bomb blast in Weliweriya, floods in April and June, 2008, and rescue operations and relief distribution activities. - Cleaned 765 wells that were contaminated by flood

08 Hambantota Finalised and given for printing

11 DS Plans were completed by Practical Action and 02 DS level initial workshops were completed

19 Awareness programme 04 First aid training 04 Fire fighting training 02 Search and rescue trainings 02 IDP camp management and leadership training

Response Activities: - Identified 11 positions for electric sirens - Responded to flood emergency situations in the Kalutara District in May and June. Mitigation Projects: - Reconstruction of Yodakandiya anicut and strengthening Weerawila Wewa river bund was completed - Conducting sustainable development programmes for natural resources project on livelihood development and disaster management along with the five CBOs in the district is in progress - Rehabilitation of small tanks in a cascade system in Hambantota as drought mitigation. Care International, Plan International, and Red Cross organisations are directly involved in this project

09 Jaffna Editing Plan in progress

To be started 03 School first aid trainings

-

Annual Report 2008


05 Awareness programmes

10 Kalutara Finalised and given for printing

10 Divisional level initial workshops were completed 02 Divisional Plans submitted to the DMC 02 GN level initial planning workshops were completed

13 Awareness programmes 36 School awareness programmes 01 Fire awareness programme for the Kalutara DS Office 05 Community awareness programmes

Mitigation Activities: - Following dredging and cleaning activities were completed: Kepu Ela, Panape Ela, Kawaiyan Ela in Wadduwa, Bidunu Ela in Waskaduwa, Manikgoda Ela in Matugama, Digan Ela and Parappu Ela in Beruwala, and Berawa Ela - Improvements to drainage systems in Edward Benedict Mawatha, Pelawatta Junction, near Rangers’ Ground in Kalutara, Nelum Mawatha upto Bolgoda River, from Ganga Ihala Road to Galle Road were completed - Improvements to evacuation routes in Horana and Ingiriya DS Divisions, to culverts on Hadigalla–Dickhena Road in Palindanuwara DS Division - Bellana–Egoda Uyana Road in Palindanuwara DS Division was completed - Improvements to water supply systems in Udawela Vilegoda, Ihalakanda village in Wanduramba GN Division in Agalawatta DS Division, Udawela, Wilegoda in Agalawatta DS Division, and Thalakanda village completed Response Activities: - Six locations were identified along the coastal belt to establish warning towers - Emergency response activities were undertaken during floods and landslides in April and June, 2008

Annual Report 2008


11 Kandy Finalised and given for printing

07 Divisional level initial workshops are completed 05 Divisional Plans submitted to the DMC 03 GN level initial planning workshops completed 01 School Disaster Safety Plan was completed

06 Awareness programmes 03 School awareness programmes

Mitigation Activities: - Risk Assessment on landslide, rock fall, and strong wind in Gangawata Korale, Hidagala, Panvila, and Hathale DS Divisions - Repairing the drain on the Balagolla Road was completed - Removal of rock boulders in Harispattuwa, Hataraliyadda, and Werapitiya Maddumbara DS Divisions completed Response Activities: - Evacuated 49 families including 208 persons from the landslide prone area of Hathale Medakotasa GN Division in Panvila DS on the 12th January, 2008

12 Kegalle Finalised and given for printing

19 GN level initial planning workshops were completed 01 DS level initial workshop was completed

01 Hospital preparedness drill and awareness programme

Response Activities: - Coordinated flood response activities in Dehiovita, Ruwanwella, and Deraniyagala DS Divisions. Mitigation Activities: - First stage of construction of the Water Supply Scheme in the Deraniyagala DS Division was completed

13 Kilinochchi Plan is being edited

To be started -

14 Kurunegala Plan is being edited

10 DS level initial workshops were completed and data collection for 150 GN Divisions are in progress 05 LA Plans are in progress

03 School First Aid trainings 04 Community awareness programmes - Prepared a District Hazard Map by DS Division and sent to the DMC (petrol sheds,

Response Activities: - Responded to rock fall at the Mawathagama DS Division - Responded to the minor flood in Giribawa DS Division Mitigation Activities: - Erection of electric fence to mitigate human elephant

Annual Report 2008


places where explosives are stored, gas points, and the industrial zone were included in the map) - GIS base mapping for vulnerable divisions, GN Divisions, roads, drainages, and hazardous events are in progress.

conflict is in progress. - Construction of a well to mitigate the drinking water issue in Saliya–Asoka Vidyalaya is in progress

15 Mannar Due to commence

50 GN Disaster Management Committees were formed

01 First aid training 01 School first aid training 04 Disaster management training programmes

-

16 Matale

Plan is being edited

02 Disaster Response Plan workshops were completed 10 GN level initial planning workshops completed

01 Life saving programme

Mitigation Activities: - Projects to construct a canal flowing through the Weera Mohan Jayamaha Vidyalaya, establishing rain gauges in Ovilikanda MV, and establishing a bio–fence in Handungamuwa MV Matale to mitigate the human–elephant conflict are in progress.

17 Matara Finalised and given for printing

Completed 02 Awareness programmes 09 School awareness programmes 02 School evacuation drills 03 First aid trainings

Mitigation Activities: - Dredging of ‘Keressa’ Canal at Bathigama East in the Dickwella DS Division - Removing a Bo tree fallen across the river at Godawa in the Kamburupitiya DS Division to facilitate free flow of water during the rainy season - Rehabilitation of the Meegahagoda canal in the

Annual Report 2008


03 School first aid trainings

Malimbada DS Division, Athapaththukanda canal in the Mulatiyana DS Division, canal in the Devinuwara DS Division, and Meegahagoda Ela in Kadduwa was completed - Identification and construction of 10 safe bathing enclosures to prevent crocodile attacks in Malimbada, Athuraliya, and Akuressa DS Divisions is in progress. Response Activities: - Coordinated flood response activities during May - Identification of most suitable places along the coastal belt to erect Tsunami Early Warning Towers

18 Moneragala Data collection is in progress

To be started 01 Awareness programme

Mitigation Activities: - Establishing a live fence to mitigate the human–elephant conflict in the Pettagamwala GN Division in the Moneragala is in progress

19 Mullaitivu Completed the initial planning workshop

Work could not be completed due to the security situation

-

20 Nuwara Eliya Data collection is in progress

To be started Mitigation Activities: - Geo Technical Investigation in the Nuwara Eliya District by NBRO and Contour Survey in Jonsland Estate in Hanguranketha were completed

21 Polonnaruwa

In progress 01 DS level workshop was completed

09 Community awareness programmes 05 School awareness programmes

Response Activities: - Actions were taken to safeguard the community from the threat of elephants - Coordinated emergency response activities for floods that occurred in three DS Divisions during May and June

22 Puttalam Finalised and given for

05 initial workshops are

07 Community awareness programmes

Mitigation Activities: - Developing model mitigation sites to demonstrate

Annual Report 2008


printing completed 05 School Plans are in progress

27 School awareness programmes 05 Evacuation drills

mitigation strategies for the human–elephant conflict in Puttalam is in progress - Stage II of Paru Ela cleaning was completed. - Establishment of natural barriers along the coastal belt and cleaning the Dutch canal near Dankotuwa was completed - Reconstruction of Rathmalgara Tank is in progress - Disaster Management Model mitigation sites on adapting to climatic change, especially focusing on the agriculture sector in Sri Lanka, is in progress Response Activities: - Issuing flood warning in Neelabamma - Inspection of locations to erect tsunami towers - Coordinated the emergency response during the coastal fire in Nirmalapura St. Sebestian’s Fishing Habour, Kalpitiya DS Division and spill ways of Jayampathi Tank in the Mundal DS Division - Coordinated emergency response during floods in Neelabamma, Karuwalagaswewa DS Division, and sea erosion in Lansigama and Katuneriya (Uthuru Pahala) GN Divisions in Nattandiya DS Division.

Annual Report 2008


23 Ratnapura Finalised and given for printing

01 DS Plan finalisation workshop

03 School awareness programmes 03 Mock drills 02 Flood assessment programmes

Mitigation Activities: - Construction of bridge to evacuate victims in Gamakanda, Nivitigala, and Ratnapura is in progress. - Development of infrastructure in Dimiyawa MVin Dambuwana and Tamil MV in Ratnapura is in progress. - Constructing the Wanniyawatte evacuation bridge - Responded to the Imbulpe forest fire control activities. - Project to minimise flood damages to the road network including, drains, in Ratnapura - Removal of dangerous rocks in Eheliyagoda Response Activities: - Responded to landslides, rock falls and earth slips, high winds, floods, fire at a tea factory, elephant attack, and epidemics from January to June.

24 Trincomalee In progress 05 GN level initial planning workshops were completed

03 School first aid trainings 03 Mock drills 02 School mock drills

Response Activities: - Coordination during floods in December, 2007, and January and March, 2008. - Conducting a dengue eradication programme in order to mitigate dengue outbreak - Evaluated the effectiveness of Tsunami Early Warning Dissemination in collaboration with the media (PANOS) - Analysed the feasibility of selected areas with the technical team on Tsunami Early Warning - Interviewed the coastal communities in Sally, Kinniya, Muttur, and Thirukadaloor Mitigation Activities: - Construction of a new drainage system in T/Peraru Parameswaram MV and construction of a water purification system in Mahawelipura V in Kantale,

Annual Report 2008


Trincomalee are in progress - Conducting sustainable development for natural resources project in collaboration with seven CBOs in the district

25 Vavuniya In progress To be started 02 School awareness programmes

Response Activities: On the 18th July, 2008, a fire occurred in the IDP camp in Poonthotam; the fire was brought under control with the support of the Sri Lanka Air Force Fire Brigade. Under the direction of the GA, a temporary location for accommodation was found and all necessities were provided to IDPs with the cooperation of INGOs, NGOs, and District Secretariat staff.

Documents

Contents Page 1.0 Introduction 02 2.0 Brief Profile of the Officers of