Political Decisions to Blame for Disaster Impact, Says Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya

12-Dec-2025

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Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya stated that Colombo District will never again permit illegal construction or resettlements that endanger people under the guise of development.

Speaking after the Colombo District Disaster Management Committee meeting on Dec 11, she said that unplanned construction and decisions driven by narrow political agendas caused the district’s vulnerability during flooding.

Although Colombo suffered less damage compared to other districts, special coordinated interventions will be implemented to mitigate future flood risks.

The committee discussed this extensively. She added that annual flooding cannot be allowed to become a normal part of life in Colombo and that a unified flood-control plan must be created with all relevant agencies. Discussions are also underway regarding solutions for people living in high-risk areas.