Landslide Evacuation Drill — Batahelayaya

Ahead of the 2026 north-east monsoon and the expected El Niño conditions, we identified landslides, which are most common during heavy rain, as one of the disasters whose harm could be reduced through preparation. With that aim, a landslide preparedness programme was held successfully on 6 October 2026 in Batahelayaya village, Wellawaya Division, Monaragala District.

It ran under the full supervision of the Monaragala District Secretary, led and guided by the Director of Disaster Management and his staff, with the excellent support of the Wellawaya Divisional Secretary and officials, the Wellawaya Police officer-in-charge, and the commanding officer and staff of the Wellawaya Army Camp.

Residents were trained to read rain gauges to spot the early signs of a landslide as rainwater builds up, and to pack a small emergency bag with essential documents, a plate, a cup and the prescription book issued by their hospital. The Batahelayaya community hall was introduced as the disaster safe centre, and the drill covered gathering people, registration, warning signals and announcements by loudspeaker. Officials made clear exactly how to reach the safe centre in an emergency.

Evidence still remains of 2011, when a large boulder broke loose from the hills above the village and rolled onto the homes below, damaging houses and displacing families.

Residents also learned how to keep daily life, hygiene and order in a safe centre after a disaster. Lunch was then cooked on site from the dry rations provided and shared happily, with children, elders and women all helping. Nature View Foundation coordinated and sponsored the drill directly.

The drill also brought out the real worries that stop people from leaving home: leaving behind their chickens, cattle and pets; people who stubbornly say 'if I die, I die — I'm staying'; and the fear that an empty home will be robbed. The officials explained kindly that if everything else survives but a life is lost, nothing is gained. Save your life first — everything else can be regained.