Sri Lanka has been experiencing multiple earth tremors of a minor scale over the past few months, especially in the Monaragala district which has created renewed concerns among the government and non-government, private sector, residents as well as other interested parties/ organisations. Considering these recent developments, the Disaster Management Centre decided to take the lead in formulating a coordinated mechanism between the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) and the Disaster Management Centre, which would help both organisations to develop an effective preparedness, early warning dissemination and response mechanism as well as to create greater awareness among the public.
As the initial step in this regard, under the guidance of the Director General of the Disaster Management Centre, Major General (Rtd.) Sudantha Ranasinghe, a discussion was held between the two organisations (i.e. DMC & GSMB) on 28th February 2023 at DMC along with the participation of other relevant key stakeholders. The Actg. Director General - Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB), Mr. M.M.J.P. Ajith Prema did a detailed presentation on earthquakes/tremors and the likely impact (if any) on Sri Lanka as well as about the available monitoring mechanisms, planned public awareness programmes and actions taken to strengthen GSMB’s research undertakings etc. and the highlighted facts were well received by the participants representing varied key sectors, comprising the media organisations.
As the next stage, DMC with the support of the officials of GSMB, wishes to roll out similar programmes to create greater awareness as well as to enhance the preparedness, awareness, early warning dissemination and response mechanisms among different sectors such as key government entities including local authorities, Tri forces, Police, Fire brigade, private sector, community based organisations etc. which would help to develop a cohesive approach in facing any potential impact on Sri Lanka due to any earthquakes/tremors or seismic hazards.
