Human activity on Kadugannawa slope must cease: Expert warns

By Mangala Pavithrani

Colombo, Nov. 27 (Daily Mirror) - Former senior professor of the Department of Geology at the University of Peradeniya, Athula Senarathna, has called for an immediate halt to human activities along the Kadugannawa slope, citing serious landslide risks. The warning comes in the wake of a recent landslide in Ganethenna.

Speaking to the media at the site, Senarathna highlighted unauthorized constructions for business expansion and the use of high-pressure water pipes for washing vehicles as key factors exacerbating instability. He urged that a wide area of about 400 acres along the railway and highway be closely monitored to minimize potential landslide hazards.

While the railway and bus routes are built on stable rock, he warned that landslides in unstable areas of the surrounding terrain could undermine the strength of these roads. During the railway’s construction, large tunnels were dug and massive rocks placed, some of which may now lie precariously on the lower slopes.

“These rocks may be lying on the slope above the main road. If we assume the upper slope is the same solid rock, we risk serious problems. The rocks can break, and the mountain retreats naturally. Dangerous rocks must be stabilized to make the slope safe,” he explained.

Senarathna recalled that as far back as 2012, he had informed authorities that the main road was at risk of subsidence. However, the Road Development Authority only patched the road with tar, a temporary measure that failed to address the underlying danger. He emphasized the need for concrete embankments and long-term stabilization work.

He also pointed out cracks in rocks below the railway line, noting that tree roots have widened these cracks over time, increasing the risk of rockfalls. He stressed that while it is impossible to predict whether a collapse could happen today or in 100 years, the area should be carefully monitored, including the use of drones to observe large rocks above the site.

Senarathna concluded that temporary fixes are insufficient and called for a proper, comprehensive study to secure the slope and prevent future disasters.