Colombo, Jan 6: Sri Lanka’s emergency regulations will continue for at least another two months as authorities step up efforts to relocate communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah, the government said on Monday.
Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala told Parliament that the extension is necessary to ensure public safety during the ongoing resettlement process. Several families displaced by the cyclone cannot be moved back or relocated until safety assessments are completed, he noted.
According to the minister, approvals from the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) are mandatory before resettlement can take place, particularly in areas identified as vulnerable to landslides or other hazards. Until these clearances are granted, emergency provisions will remain in force to support relief, relocation and security operations.
The government maintains that the continuation of emergency laws is a temporary measure linked directly to disaster response and rehabilitation, and not a routine extension. Officials said the regulations will help facilitate orderly relocation, safeguard affected populations and prevent further risk while technical evaluations are underway.
Cyclone Ditwah, which struck parts of the country late last year, displaced thousands of residents and caused significant damage to housing and infrastructure, prompting the initial imposition of emergency measures.
