The Hon. Shantha Pathma Kumara Subasingha

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, the Adjournment Motion presented by Hon. Waruna Liyanage is very timely. Not only Ratnapura, but both Ratnapura and Kalutara Districts are affected by disasters with floods. Governments so far have responded after floods by providing some relief, just like the fire brigade comes after a fire. But as Hon. Waruna Liyanage said, a sustainable solution is needed. Even before this Government assumed office, we prepared district plans through a national scientific approach.

¶ 02 We focused especially on sustainably ending the flood situation affecting Ratnapura and Kalutara. We have several proposals. Beyond the Kalu Ganga, floods in Ratnapura and surrounding areas are also caused by the Walawe and Kuru Rivers. One of our proposals is the "dry dam" concept you explained. As far as I know, it has not yet been piloted in Sri Lanka, but it is used in developed countries like the USA. We discussed implementing dry dams particularly in areas like Malwala.

¶ 03 The Kalu Ganga flows about 100 km and then, near Kalutara, roughly parallel to the sea for about 2 km before turning at about 90 degrees to discharge to the sea. If we can widen the river mouth beyond that, that too is a good measure; scientists have proposed this as well.

¶ 04 Additionally, regarding the Udawalawe Reservoir, that is also a very successful project. Experts also suggest widening the riverbanks to improve flow. Several proposals exist. We are working on them. The Deputy Minister will inform the Government’s plans. I sincerely thank you for bringing this Motion. We invite all to work together to completely resolve Ratnapura’s flood situation.

¶ 05 If we can begin at least on one front this year, it would be excellent. I do not know what answer the Deputy Minister will provide, but as you said, we must find a solution as soon as possible. As a Government MP, I will advocate, and our Deputy Minister and all of us will support this, as it affects not only Ratnapura but also Kalutara. Thank you; we are paying attention to this matter and are discussing many proposals. I resume my seat.