Mahamaya Girls College closed indefinitely due to landslide threat

By Shane Senevirathna  

The Mahamaya Girls’ College in Kandy remains closed indefinitely as geologists warn of ongoing land instability on the slopes above the school premises. The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) has stated it cannot recommend a date for resuming classes until comprehensive safety assessments are completed.  

The closure was prompted by significant earth slips at multiple points along the Rajapihilla Mawatha, the road situated directly above the school. A team of NBRO geologists, led by District Chief Geologist Saman Bogahapitiya, conducted a site inspection and identified improper rainwater management on the slopes as a primary cause.  

“The unstable land is a direct result of inadequate drainage and water management on these slopes,” Bogahapitiya explained. “This has led to an earth slip affecting the road above the school. We must now extend our inspections to the school building itself and several other structures in the immediate area.”  

Bogahapitiya emphasized that the current, persistent rainfall complicates the assessment and prevents any immediate decision. “We need more time for further tests on the stability of the land and surrounding buildings. A final decision on reopening can only be made after a full evaluation,” he said. He clarified that the incident is classified as an earth slip, not a deep-seated landslide.  The geologist also issued a broader warning regarding construction practices in the area. He noted that while many residents seek NBRO permission for building plans—often a requirement for bank loans—a significant number either ignore the agency’s technical advice or bypass the permission process entirely.