National Disaster Management Committee Convenes Under the Patronage of the President at the Ministry of Defence
November 28, 2025The National Disaster Management Committee convened last evening (27 November) at the Ministry of Defence under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to assess the emergency situation caused by the severe adverse weather affecting the country.
The meeting focused on evaluating the unfolding disaster situation and identifying immediate measures required to safeguard human lives and maintain uninterrupted relief efforts. President Dissanayake held extensive discussions with relevant authorities to ensure the continuous provision of essential relief services, issuing instructions to expedite interventions and swiftly allocate the necessary resources.
The President also engaged in detailed discussions on protecting the country’s irrigation systems, directing officials to take prompt action to prevent potential high-risk situations. Special attention was given to the situation along the Eastern coastline, where possible impacts from prevailing storm conditions were reviewed.
Additionally, President Dissanayake instructed the Disaster Management Centre and the Department of Irrigation to plan compensation arrangements for households and agricultural lands damaged due to the ongoing adverse weather. He further directed the Department of Meteorology to provide continuous updates to the public on weather changes, disaster risks, and vulnerable areas.
During the meeting, the Defence Secretary briefed the gathering, stating that the Tri-Forces remain fully prepared to support relief operations at any moment and are already actively assisting affected communities across multiple regions.
The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka, Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Susil Ranasinghe, and Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake. Also present were the Tri-Forces Commanders, senior officials from the Disaster Management Centre, Department of Irrigation, Department of Meteorology, Mahaweli Authority, and other key institutions.
This high-level discussion reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a coordinated national response aimed at minimizing risks, protecting lives, and ensuring swift recovery for affected communities.