Landslide threat; Kandy-Colombo main road closed from Pahala Kadugannawa

Due to the danger and possible earth slips, the Kandy-Colombo main road is closed at Pahala Kadugannawa, the Kegalle district secretariat said.

He said the decision was taken due to possible landslide threats.

Following several inspections were conducted in the area, it was found that water flowing in many places beneath the road.

Several byroad shops in the risk area have been advised to evacuate with immediate effect.

Therefore, the mororists were advised to use alternative roads to reach Colombo.

Professor of Geology of the Peradeniya University Senior Professor Atula Senaratne said the Pahala-Kadugannawa area is in danger due to the adverse weather conditions.

A stretch of more than 250 metres has the possibility of experiencing a landslide at any time. Therefore, the people in the area should be evacuated as soon as possible. Signs of possible landslide are already visible in the area along with a dangerous underground stream.

Therefore, it is recommended to close this area as soon as possible, Prof. Senaratne said. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)