Making a special statement, the Opposition Leader pointed out that the primary cause of Colombo being submerged following recent rains was issues with water drainage. He noted that the Mayor had stated the existing drainage system in Colombo is only sufficient for rainfall between 30 and 50 millimetres.

He recalled that according to meteorological records, such disasters did not occur even when massive rainfalls were recorded in 1992, 2005, 2016, as well as 493.7 mm in 1993 and 440.2 mm in 2010. The Opposition Leader said a large number of people were severely affected due to the lack of drainage system development and the failure to clear waste.

Key Points
  • Allegations that the public suffered severe hardships due to Colombo's drainage system not being properly cleared of waste and maintained.
  • Opposition Leader states such situations did not occur even when rainfall reached 493.7 mm in 1993 and 440.2 mm in 2010.
  • Proposals made to adopt advanced drainage methods used by Singapore and the Netherlands in Sri Lanka.

Solutions through advanced global technology

He stated that had the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) been in power, plans were in place to introduce advanced storm water drainage systems like those used in countries such as Singapore. He pointed out that concepts such as underground water storage tanks, pumping and diversion systems, and green infrastructure could be implemented.

Furthermore, he emphasized that a programme involving water barriers and river widening should be undertaken, following the model of the Advanced Flood Management System implemented in the Netherlands. Sajith Premadasa further added that instead of pointing fingers at each other at this juncture, the government holding the majority in Parliament should seek solutions by including the opposition as well.

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