In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, together with the Departments of Civil Engineering of the University of Peradeniya and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, actively contributed to a voluntary post-disaster damage assessment programme conducted from 9–11 December. This initiative was carried out in collaboration with the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) and the Ministry of Education, Sri Lanka, with the objective of supporting rapid and informed decision-making on the safe reopening of affected schools.
As part of this national-level response, Civil engineering teams undertook detailed structural and geotechnical assessments of more than 60 school buildings across the Central Province. The assessments focused on identifying cyclone-induced damage, evaluating structural integrity, examining slope stability and foundation conditions, and determining the overall safety of school infrastructure. The findings were intended to assist authorities in prioritising remedial actions and ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and staff before resuming academic activities.
The University of Moratuwa team was led by academic staff members Dr. Chathura Rajapaksha, Dr. Chamod Hettiarachchi, Dr. Nalaka Jayantha, and Dr. Sampath Hewage, supported by postgraduate research assistants and final-year undergraduate students. All members participated on a voluntary basis, demonstrating a strong commitment to professional service and community engagement. The teams covered a wide geographical area within the Central Province, including Kandy, Gampola, Hatton, Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Ulapane, and several other affected and vulnerable locations.
This initiative stands as a strong example of inter-university collaboration, effective engagement between academia and national institutions, and the civil engineering community’s dedication to providing timely, responsible, and socially impactful expertise during times of national need. The Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, remains committed to contributing its knowledge and skills in support of disaster resilience and public safety across Sri Lanka.
