Opposition leader calls for preparedness against El Niño

Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has called for the urgent implementation of a new, proactive strategy to prepare Sri Lanka for natural disasters, specifically highlighting the threat posed by the El Niño phenomenon.

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The country needs a new proactive plan to face disasters like El Niño.

Premadasa pointed out that current El Niño conditions have already led to the drying up of numerous reservoirs across the country. This situation serves as a stark warning of potential drought and underscores the immediate need for robust preparedness measures.

He further criticized the nation's existing disaster management framework, deeming it inadequate and ineffective in the face of the challenges presented by El Niño. Premadasa stressed that the old methods are insufficient to cope with the current environmental threats.

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Many reservoirs have dried up due to the current El Niño conditions, signaling a drought risk.

The opposition leader made these remarks while attending the groundbreaking ceremony for a Chaitya at the Sri Vivekaramaya temple in Weerawila. His statements reflect growing concerns about climate change impacts and the government's readiness to address them.

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The current disaster management system has proven ineffective, and the old disaster management methods are incapable of handling the El Niño situation.