Authorities in Sri Lanka’s Badulla District recently conducted a large-scale evacuation drill in preparation for future natural disasters, following the significant impact of Cyclone Ditwah in late 2022. The exercise aimed to enhance readiness and coordination among local government agencies, emergency services, and communities vulnerable to cyclones, landslides, and flooding.
The drill took place on Thursday near the Sri Pada De-wawa Gagana area in Katumbola, involving families who were temporarily relocated to designated shelters. Participants were instructed to bring essential items, including identification cards, replicating conditions of an emergency evacuation. The operation formed part of a broader initiative by Radio Sirail and was supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which provided aid and technical assistance to facilitate the rapid establishment of safe centers.
Badulla was among the 16 districts worst affected when Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on November 30, 2022. The cyclone and its associated landslides caused extensive damage, with an estimated 82,000 structures nationwide affected, including significant losses in Badulla and surrounding areas. Approximately 90,112 people were impacted, nearly half of whom were students. The district also faced severe agricultural setbacks; about 80% of the national rice crop was destroyed, and many local farmers suffered substantial losses due to persistent drought conditions exacerbating the cyclone's aftermath.
Officials from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) highlighted ongoing challenges in the district, such as environmental degradation, unpredictable rainfall, and slow recovery progress, which collectively threaten food security and livelihoods. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of improved planning and technical support to bolster farming practices and disaster resilience.
The drill underscored the importance of emergency preparedness in an area still recovering from past devastation. Multiple government departments, including the District Disaster Management Committee chaired by the district director, coordinated the effort alongside over 300 officials involved in relief and coordination activities. Special attention was given to vulnerable populations, including elderly residents and those living in high-risk estate areas prone to landslides.
Community facilities, such as schools and religious centers like the Lankatilaka temple and Pallema Ela School, also played pivotal roles during the evacuation simulation. School officials reported efforts to maintain educational activities despite disruptions caused by natural disasters, while emergency response teams worked to ensure effective communication using modern technology to reach isolated or elderly residents.
Relief organizations, including the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society and the Life & Wellness Development Foundation (LWDF), participated in the exercise, providing operational support and public health oversight. Medical teams and public health supervisors collaborated with disaster management officials to address health concerns and logistical challenges related to sheltering displaced populations.
The drill highlighted ongoing vulnerabilities in the district, such as damaged infrastructure and limited access to remote areas, which complicate disaster response. Officials acknowledged that while preparations have improved, significant work remains to ensure timely evacuation and protect lives in future emergencies.
Overall, the recent exercise in Badulla reflects a continuing commitment by Sri Lankan authorities and partners to strengthen disaster management capabilities as the region confronts the persistent threat of extreme weather events.