Japanese smart engineering expertise sought for landslides prevention

Plans are in place for the application of smart engineering techniques for slope stabilization where necessary   

By Kelum Bandara

A Japanese expert will arrive in Sri Lanka for collaboration in the application of smart engineering methods for slope stabilization as a measure for landslides prevention in the future, an official said.  

Sri Lanka experienced multiple landslides in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah which unleashed unprecedented volumes of rainwater. According to Director General of the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) Dr. Asiri Karunawardena, 3,784 hectares of land were affected by over 1200 landslides that occurred after Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on November 28, last year.  

He said that his office is now assessing the extent of landmass in the hill country, prone to landslides in the future. After that, those lands will be declared uninhabitable due to risks. He said such lands would be reserved for tree plantation and afforestation. 

“People may be able to cultivate them but not occupy them due to possible landslide threats,” he said.  

Besides, he said plans are in place for the application of smart engineering techniques for slope stabilization where necessary. He said that international assistance is forthcoming with a Japanese expert expected here soon to explore collaboration. 

Also, he added countries such as France had offered to help.