SRI LANKA COAST GUARD'S PROMPT ACTION RESTORES WATER SUPPLY TO VILLAGES FOLLOWING OIL SPILL RESPONSE AND MANAGEMENT EFFORTS

In a commendable display of swift action and strategic coordination, the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) responded decisively to an oil spill incident reported late on the evening of May 5, 2024. The spill, originating from a fuel transferring bowser that had fallen into a waterway at the Laggala Divisional Secretariat. After receiving the news, immediate efforts taken by SLCG under the visionary leadership of the Director General of SLCG.

The Operations Directorate of SLCG quickly engaged with the Disaster Management Center to gather crucial details for effective planning and execution of the oil spill response and management operation. With meticulous arrangements in place, a team comprising three Officers and ten Coast Guard personnel was deployed as the first responders early morning on May 6, 2024.

The incident, situated at the Laggala LC 1 tank and its connected canal within the Laggala DS division, posed a significant environmental threat, affecting not only the immediate area but also disrupting the water supply essential for daily use and agricultural activities of the villagers. Throughout the day, they were unable to access water and felt helpless. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the SLCG Rapid Response Team worked tirelessly and managed to clear the tank within a day, with support from the Divisional secretariat and staff, Grama Niladari and staff, Mahaveli project team, Laggala Police and the local villagers.

Approximately 3500 liters of fuel oil were spilled, necessitating urgent action to contain and mitigate its impact. Through hardworking efforts, the team successfully recovered approximately 2000 liters of contaminated fuel oil. This rapid and effective response underscores the SLCG's unwavering commitment to community welfare across social, economic and human security aspects.

By swiftly addressing the mitigation of environmental hazards while prioritizing the well-being of local communities, the SLCG has once again demonstrated its capacity to safeguard both natural resources and human livelihoods in times of crisis. Such proactive measures not only mitigate immediate risks but also contribute to the long-term resilience and sustainability of ecosystems and communities.