The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has launched an investigation to determine whether instability observed on the slopes along Raja Pihilla Mawatha in Kandy poses any risk to the buildings of Mahamaya Girls’ College.
NBRO Kandy District Chief Geologist Samantha Bogahapitiya, Engineer Hasitha Karunadhipathi, and Land Use Officer of the Gangawata Korale Divisional Secretariat, Thanuja Perera, conducted an on-site inspection on the 20th.
Addressing the media following the inspection, Bogahapitiya said soil instability has been observed on the slopes of Raja Pihilla Mawatha above Mahamaya Girls’ College and that further studies are required. He emphasised that the situation does not appear to be a landslide, but rather a condition caused by poor rainwater management and the failure to stabilise soil embankments in line with engineering standards.
“There are several buildings located between Mahamaya Girls’ College and Raja Pihilla Road, as well as above the road itself. The stability of both the land and these structures must be examined in greater detail. This process will take time, and a final decision can only be made after all relevant assessments are completed,” he said.
Bogahapitiya noted that no recommendations have yet been issued regarding the school, as investigations are still at a preliminary stage. With rainfall continuing, several more days will be required before a conclusion can be reached. “Only after carefully evaluating all factors can we provide a clear position on the continuation of school activities,” he added, reiterating that the issue is not a landslide but soil collapse linked to inadequate stabilisation following road construction.
However, responding to inquiries, Primary Section Principal of Mahamaya Girls’ College, Damayanthi Navaratne, said no decision has been taken to close the school indefinitely. She stressed that there is no landslide situation within the school premises.
She explained that NBRO officials are examining an unstable area located above the school boundary, which does not fall within school property. “It has not yet been determined whether this condition has any impact on the school. We expect NBRO to provide us with a report on this matter in due course,” she said. (Courtesy: Ceylon Today)
