The Hon. Amila Prasad

¶ 01 [3.35 p.m.]

¶ 02 Hon. Presiding Member, thank you for the opportunity.

¶ 03 I am pleased to speak on the Bill establishing the National Building Research Institute. Transforming NBRO into NBRI should enable the Government to meet its expectations, because institutions like this are vital to provide technical and research support to reduce future loss of life and property from impending hazards in a developing country like Sri Lanka.

¶ 04 A key function should be to promote designs resilient to climate variability and energy crises, and to provide facilities for research on soils and other mineral resources across the island. In this transitional September period, with delayed monsoons and heat driving up electricity demand, systems come under stress. Conservation is vital. With delayed rains followed by intense bursts, landslides and floods increase. The upgraded Institute must act before disasters occur—prevention and mitigation.

¶ 05 However, I could not find a clear statement of the Government’s policy framework within the Bill or speech—what is the overarching state policy guiding this? I invite clarification.

¶ 06 Institutions like this house much of our intellectual capital, yet inefficiency arises not from staff but from lack of modern equipment and, critically, staff shortages. If we can establish district branches, mandate pre-construction soil testing with quick, low-cost turnaround, many collapses can be averted. Landslide risks are not confined to the central hills; in my Mirigama electorate, Danovita, Madabavita, Bothale, and Nattawalam Pitiya areas also face risks. Rather than paying compensation after losses, we should map soils nationwide and guide safe construction.

¶ 07 We should also map mineral resources scientifically to guide development and attract investment. Proper mapping prevents wasteful treasure-hunting and allows the State to leverage genuine deposits.

¶ 08 This is a research office connected with bodies like the Green Building Council and IESL. If we can integrate the entire system—including the Disaster Management Centre—we can deliver more efficient service. Often, such expertise is not fully drawn into policymaking; this reform should correct that, with constant updating.

¶ 09 At local level, Technical Officers are critical to implementation. Link them with NBRI and update their knowledge, because the centre may make policy but implementation relies on these officers.

¶ 10 Given climate change and heat, research on building materials and designs that control temperature, integrate solar on roofs, etc., is essential. Allocate funds in the next Budget to strengthen this Institute.

¶ 11 In the central hills, reservoirs have accumulated heavy silt; a sudden slope failure could endanger dams. Establish NBRI branches in those areas for continuous monitoring.

¶ 12 On sand, gravel, and soil transport: speeding tippers pose grave danger, as seen in recent crashes with school vans. Enforce load limits strictly; reduce quotas that drive reckless speeds.

¶ 13 Today I saw buses overcrowded with schoolchildren near Muddaragama. I appeal to the Transport Minister to increase buses during school times for safety.

¶ 14 This is a good Bill, but I could not easily see what key changes are made in implementation. Beyond central policy, empower Provincial Councils and local bodies to implement. Hold Provincial Council elections soon, as per your policy statement, so these policies can be executed on the ground. Wishing strength to implement these reforms, and best wishes to your Government at one year in office. Thank you.