6th PSC Meeting on Landslide Mitigation Held at Defence Ministry
September 12, 2025The 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting of the Reduction of Landslide Vulnerability by Mitigation Measures Project (RLVMMP), implemented by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), was held today (Sep 12) at the Ministry of Defence.
Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), in his capacity as Chairman of the PSC, presided over the session. In his opening remarks, the Defence Secretary highlighted the importance of landslide mitigation in safeguarding vulnerable communities and infrastructure across the country. He also commended the commitment of all stakeholders for their continued collaboration and timely reviews, which ensure steady progress of this vital national initiative.
Delivering an overview of the project, NBRO’s Director General Eng. (Dr.) Asiri Karunawardana underscored the significance of inputs from stakeholder representatives to the PSC. He noted that these contributions play a critical role in formulating official recommendations for the Government with respect to project planning and execution.
The Project Director of RLVMMP, Eng. Virajh Dias, presented the current status of the project, after which the floor was opened for discussion. Deliberations covered key aspects such as overall project progress and forecasts, implementation of the action plan, financial allocations and utilisation, identification of priority vulnerable areas, project results framework, as well as stakeholder consultations. Special emphasis was also placed on community awareness regarding environmental, social, health, and safety aspects linked to project implementation.
The meeting brought together representatives of key government stakeholders, including Mr. K.G. Dharmathilake, Additional Secretary and Mr. W.W.S. Mangala, Director General (Planning) from the Disaster Management Division, among others. Their insights contributed to a constructive dialogue aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of landslide mitigation measures across the country.
