COLOMBO : Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya reportedly instructed officials two days ago to expedite the cleaning of canals and drainage systems to ensure the smooth flow of rainwater ahead of the anticipated increase in rainfall. She also directed that the work be completed within two weeks and that regular maintenance continue thereafter.
Amid the persistent heavy rains, a stretch of Jethawana Road, Colombo 14, in front of Jethawana Temple, Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC (DIMO) and A. Baur & Company (Private) Limited, becomes severely inundated.
To avoid the floodwater, pedestrians are compelled to walk along the centre island rather than use the pavements. Motorists, too, tend to drive closer to the centre island, as the water level is often higher along the pavement-side lanes.
Unfortunately, large plant pots placed on the centre island by the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) obstruct pedestrians, forcing them to step onto the road to get past these obstacles. This creates a serious safety hazard for both pedestrians and motorists.
I therefore request the PM to intervene and instruct the CMC Mayoress to have these plant pots temporarily removed until the flooding problem is permanently resolved.This simple, practical measure would ease the inconvenience faced by road users and help minimise the risk of accidents while the necessary drainage improvements are undertaken.
Mohamed Zahran
Colombo
