Residents of Galle Fort have called on local authorities to quickly repair a collapsed section of the underground drainage system that has led to the closure of Church Street. The collapse has prompted concerns over safety and accessibility, with residents highlighting the challenges posed by the closure.

The affected area has been cordoned off for safety reasons, but those living and working nearby say the disruption is causing significant inconvenience. Several local business owners have warned that the closure, occurring just before the start of the tourist season, may negatively impact their livelihoods due to reduced foot traffic.

Safety concerns have been raised as well, particularly given the current rainy weather, which residents say increases the risk of accidents near the damaged site. They urge authorities to prioritize repairs to prevent further hazards and restore normal access to the historic street.

Efforts to address the damage have not yet been publicly detailed, and no timeline for reopening Church Street has been provided by officials. Meanwhile, the community continues to press for swift action to mitigate the effects on daily life and the local economy.