Disaster risk mechanisms: ADPC to provide additional technical cooperation

The Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC) is engaging with its member countries and partners to explore avenues for additional technical cooperation and assistance to support Sri Lanka’s rebuilding process, particularly in strengthening disaster risk reduction and preparedness mechanisms.

The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to Thailand, E.A.S. Wijayanthi Edirisinghe had a meeting with the Executive Director of the ADPC, Aslam Perwaiz, at the ADPC premises to discuss continued cooperation in post-disaster recovery and long-term resilience building in Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. 

 Edirisinghe further highlighted that the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has identified the ADPC as a potential strategic partner to strengthen recovery efforts and enhance long-term disaster resilience. She noted that in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, significant landslide-related damages were reported in several Districts, including Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya, involving ground movement, land subsidence, and structural damage to housing and infrastructure. In this context, Edirisinghe explained that the NBRO has sought international support to mobilise global expertise in advanced landslide risk assessment, including remote sensing technologies, drone-based analysis, and satellite imagery, with the objective of strengthening early warning systems, hazard mapping, and mitigation planning in vulnerable areas.

Perwaiz conveyed his satisfaction that Sri Lankan Government institutions are working tirelessly and in close coordination to rebuild the country following the devastation caused by Ditwah. Reaffirming the ADPC’s commitment, he assured continued support to the Sri Lankan Government in its recovery and resilience-building efforts.

Edirisinghe also held a brief discussion on potential collaboration between Sri Lanka and the ADPC with the First Chairperson of the ADPC Board of Trustees, Professor Krasae Chanawongse. 

Source - The Morning