Update: Troops Arrest Split of Canal Bank

Alert Army troops of the 16 Gajaba Regiment (GR) of the 143 Brigade of Colombo-based 14 Division under the Security Force Headquarters - West (SFHQ-West) Wednesday (23) evening hurried to flood-threatened Moriyakulama area in Karuwalagaswewa and prevented any imminent complete burst of the bank of Moriyakulama agricultural canal by stacking as many sand bags as possible, atop most vulnerable patches.

The danger of bank's split prompted the troops to consult officials in the Department of Irrigation and get their assistance for the immediate remedial measure. Troops were also supported by villagers during the whole operation.

Water levels in the area rose swiftly with rain waters, together with canal water accumulated within a few hours posing a threat to the people living in the area.