The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC

¶ 01 Sir, we face a huge calamity. Some of us remember the 1978 cyclone and, later, the 2004 tsunami; now the 2025 “Ditva” cyclone.

¶ 02 Before turning to the main topic, I note a matter of political conduct. We should not normalize a culture where Opposition Members sing praises to the Government for advantage. Constructive, evidence-based criticism is our role. With respect, I express disappointment with the President’s address for lacking sufficient specifics, though he may provide details later. Conversely, I am proud of the Opposition Leader’s data-driven critique.

¶ 03 On timelines: cyclones develop from low pressure, to deep depressions, then potentially cyclones as moisture feeds in. The Department of Meteorology’s bulletins around 26–27 November tracked this. The public often underestimates hazards from intense rainfall causing landslides and rivers to overtop. Media must clearly warn that even light subsequent rains can reactivate landslides.

¶ 04 We need a stronger early-warning architecture: a trusted, centralized forecasting and public advisory unit integrating the Department of Meteorology, NBRO, Disaster Management Centre, universities, and social media, capable of micromanaging warnings down to vulnerable localities—like systems in volcanic regions abroad.

¶ 05 Two urgent issues from Kandy: in the Akurana DS, Rambuk Ella landslide killed 29; only 16 bodies have been recovered; assistance is needed to recover the rest. Mawathura also faces serious problems. Special thanks to the Chief Incumbent of the Kongala Viharaya for selfless service without religious or linguistic bias. Also, public health is critical: wells are contaminated; there is no pipe-borne water in many areas. Please address safe water urgently and support affected paddy lands.

¶ 06 We will retain our right to critique while rejecting any political culture of sycophancy. Thank you.