Authorities have pinpointed 60 problem areas across Colombo where blocked drainage paths continue to create chaos. To tackle the frequent urban flooding, several state institutions have now teamed up to clear the obstacles.
These trouble spots are spread over five electoral constituencies under the Colombo Municipal Council: Colombo North, Colombo East, Colombo West, Borella, and Colombo Central.
Cleaning kicks off at key spots
According to the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, clearing work started today (08). Immediate attention is focused on locations dealing with massive drainage clogs and serious flood dangers.
On-ground checks and drain cleaning are already taking place in multiple known hotspots. Work is underway at Kirimandala Mawatha in Narahenpita, Haig Road in Bambalapitiya, Collingwood Place, the Cooray Urban Housing Scheme, Stafford Road and the neighbouring Kirulapone Canal, New Bazaar in Central Colombo, De Mel Road, and Paradise Road.
Why Colombo keeps going under water
This urgent action comes after heavy downpours on Friday evening (06) submerged areas like Pettah, Dematagoda, Orugodawatta, Colpetty, Bambalapitiya, and Kompanna Veediya.
Officials noted that years of neglected drainage networks, illegal structures, unplanned city growth, and poor coordination between state bodies are the main culprits behind the non-stop flooding.
The project plans to do more than just clear immediate blockages, with authorities aiming for sustainable solutions to protect the city long-term. Teams from the Sri Lanka Army, Colombo Municipal Council, Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation, Urban Development Authority, and Road Development Authority are taking part in the mission.
