Enhancing scientific and societal understanding of geohazards in Sri Lanka

After the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, the possibility of the occurrence of catastrophic disasters was realized, although Sri Lanka is not close to a plate boundary. This catastrophic event has emphasized that Sri Lanka as a country may not be able to cope with these major natural disasters, in addition to localized and frequently occurring disasters such as landslides and floods, without a proper disaster management plan (DMP). In the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, the Government of Sri Lanka developed a comprehensive DMP with the consultation of international expertise. This study reviews the DMP in Sri Lanka and examines the effectiveness of the existing management structure by revisiting the affected areas and communities in selected case studies of a tsunami-struck coastal strip in 2004 and a recent catastrophic landslide. Questionnaire surveys and field observations were used to collect data on preparedness, the availability of evacuation plans and pre-disaster warning systems. The results show the necessity for further improvements in the management of geohazards.