Constructions blocking natural canals, waterways to be removed

The Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development says that constructions blocking natural canals and waterways in Kolonnawa, Kaduwela, Wattala and Kelaniya are to be removed due to urban flooding risk.

Issuing a statement today (26), the ministry said that areas such as Colombo, Kolonnawa, Kaduwela, Wattala and Kelaniya are at risk of experiencing floods due to the water level of the Kelani River rising significantly as a result of the adverse weather conditions and the heavy rainfall experienced in Colombo since yesterday. 

Therefore Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has instructed the Land Reclamation and Development Corporation as well as other relevant institutions to remove the constructions blocking natural canals and waterways in those areas after notifying respective municipal councils and Pradeshiya Sabhas. 

The ministry also requests people’s representatives and the public to provide the necessary assistance to carry out the aforementioned measures in order to safeguard lives and property.