16th December 2025 21:04:12 Hours
In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwa, the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers proved its indispensable role in national disaster response by undertaking a wide range of multi-dimensional relief operations beyond conventional construction tasks. Working under demanding conditions and time-critical requirements, Engineer troops extended their expertise to restore essential public services, safeguard key infrastructure, and support affected communities across the country.
Among the immediate humanitarian interventions, Engineer troops were deployed to remove large volumes of garbage, mud, and flood-deposited debris in heavily affected areas, including the Kolonnawa General area and the Anuradhapura Hospital premises. These operations were vital in restoring sanitation, preventing secondary health risks, and enabling the uninterrupted functioning of critical medical services in flood-hit regions.
The Corps also undertook the reconstruction of the damaged Elahera Anicut, a structure of immense importance to irrigation and water management in the region. Despite challenging hydrological conditions, Engineer troops worked with precision and determination to stabilize and reinstate the anicut, thereby ensuring the continuity of water supply for agricultural activities and downstream communities. In addition, restoration and strengthening work was carried out on the Mahaveli River Bund in the Allai Kantalai General Area, which had been weakened due to prolonged flooding. The timely reinforcement of the bund was critical in preventing further erosion and protecting nearby settlements and agricultural lands from potential breaches.
Further extending their support to national infrastructure, the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers provided crucial assistance in the reconstruction and realignment of damaged railway tracks along the Anuradhapura– Jaffna, Anuradhapura–Tambuttegama, and Thandikulam–Jaffna sectors. These efforts played a key role in restoring rail connectivity, facilitating the movement of passengers and goods, and strengthening economic recovery in the Northern and North Central regions.
In addition, Engineer troops successfully carried out the restoration of the main water supply line in Raththota, which had been severely affected by flooding and ground instability. The timely completion of this task ensured the resumption of safe and reliable water supply to the area, directly improving the living conditions of the affected population.
Beyond these highlighted operations, numerous other relief tasks were executed simultaneously across the island, reflecting the Corps’ exceptional adaptability, technical competence, and unwavering commitment to national service. Through tireless effort, professional excellence, and a steadfast sense of duty, the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers stood at the forefront of disaster relief, embodying resilience in crisis and reinforcing public confidence during one of the nation’s most challenging periods..
