Declare climate emergency

• Underscores importance of ‘climate independence’ promoted by UN

Megapolis and Western Development Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka requested the Cabinet on Sunday to declare a climate emergency as monsoon rain failed this year thus triggering a possible scarcity of water for drinking, agriculture and power generation.  

He said the country should brace for such eventuality by taking adequate precautions and underscored the importance of ‘climate independence’ promoted by the United Nations. 
“That should be done to mitigate the impact of climate change,” he said.