10th October 2025 11:12:27 Hours
As per the concept of the Commander, Security Force Headquarters (West), and with the advice and approval of the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, a comprehensive awareness workshop on “Emergency Response for Tourist Safety” was organized by the 18th Battalion, Sri Lanka National Guard at the Sri Lanka Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Base Workshop - Udawalawa on 08 October 2025.
The program was held from 0830 hrs to 1630 hrs under the guidance and supervision of the 61 Infantry Division and 572 Infantry Brigade, aimed to educate tourist hotel owners, administrative authorities, security guards, and members of the Safari Jeep Association in the 572 Infantry Brigade area on effective responses during emergencies to ensure the safety of both local and foreign tourists.
The workshop was conducted by Lieutenant Colonel W W M C Bandara USP psc, the Commanding Officer of the 1st Commando Regiment, along with 00 x 04 instructor panel and 78 staff members representing tourist hotels in the Ratnapura District including 03 officials from Hotel Police cell in Udawalawa police station.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Brigadier Suraj Gamage, the Commander of 572 Infantry Brigade, Colonel Chathura Mendis, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Base Workshop - Udawalawa, Senior officers, and officers of the 572 Infantry Brigade Headquarters and its subordinate units.
The workshop featured interactive sessions, demonstrations, and discussions focused on practical measures for responding to emergencies such as natural disasters, security incidents, and medical emergencies involving tourists. All participants were provided with lunch whilst calypso music entertainments and afternoon tea as part of the event’s arrangements.
This initiative reflects the Sri Lanka Army’s continued commitment to supporting national efforts in strengthening the country’s tourism sector and ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors across the island.
