Sri Lanka: Managing landslide risk and planned relocation in Kegalle District

Sri Lanka is highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters, particularly landslides caused by heavy rainfall and changing weather patterns, exacerbated by deforestation and improper land use. Around 20% of the country’s land is susceptible to landslides, especially in central and hilly districts like Kegalle.

Kegalle’s vulnerability became evident during Cyclone Ditwah, which made landfall on 28th November 2025 and triggered heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. Post-cyclone, initial large-scale collective sheltering evolved into dispersed and protracted displacement patterns, as damaged roads and ongoing hazard exposure hindered safe returns. Until April 2026, between 8,033 and 36,060 individuals within Kegalle District remained displaced.

The National Building Research Organisation produced maps classifying areas by risk level to support in-situ adaptation in lower-risk areas while facilitating resettlement out of high-risk areas. The Government of Sri Lanka identified safer land for relocating families in Kegalle and provided monetary support to those affected. Nationwide, the inhabitants of around 25,000 houses likely need relocation out of high-risk “red zones” declared post-disaster, which highlights the need for well-planned and equitable relocation and restoration of safe living conditions.

Key takeaways:

1. Comprehensive relocation efforts must also address the structural and environmental conditions that have created vulnerability in the first place.
2. Access to sanitation and healthcare, food and nutritional security, as well as their connection to agricultural livelihoods and home gardens, must be included in broader risk management and resettlement frameworks.
3. Scaling up shelter repair and transitional housing remains essential for settlements with partially damaged structures, alongside long-term support for livelihood recovery.
4. Clearly communicating new ministerial decrees and cabinet decisions post-emergency events also remains crucial, as unclarities remain regarding eligibility and support amounts for affected households and individuals.
5. Resettled community members fear the potential loss of passive income, increased expenses for food and transportation, reduced access to clean water, limited work opportunities, and difficulties accessing education, healthcare, or religious places.