High-Level Discussion Held to Formulate a National Mechanism for Drowning Prevention and Enhance Lifesaving Efforts

A high-level consultative meeting was convened yesterday (07 May) at the Parliament Complex to initiate the formulation of a robust National Mechanism for Drowning Prevention and Lifesaving. The initiative aims to create a synchronized, multi-sectoral framework to mitigate water-related fatalities and enhance public safety across the island.

The meeting marked a long-overdue first step towards establishing a coordinated national mechanism to protect lives and safeguard Sri Lanka's aquatic environments. For years, this vital effort remained dormant. Yesterday, it commenced.

The session was co-chaired by Hon. Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), Hon. Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education, Dr. Madhura Senevirathna, and Hon. Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr. Dinindu Saman Hennayake.

Opening the proceedings, the Deputy Minister of Defence briefed attendees on the gravity of the current drowning trends. He underscored that the loss of lives in water-related incidents is not merely a social issue, but also a critical matter of public safety and national security. He further highlighted that the absence of a structured safety mechanism poses a serious risk to national interests. He also stated that ensuring the safety of both domestic and international visitors is essential for the advancement of the tourism sector and for preserving the country's standing on the global stage.

The Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education proposed integrating water safety awareness into the national school curriculum, aiming to foster a lifelong culture of preparedness. Complementing this proposal, the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs emphasized the potential of the younger generation. He proposed mobilizing youth through specialized training programmes to create a skilled volunteer force, thereby establishing a sustainable, community-based safety network to support professional lifesaving services.

The discussion brought together a wide range of high-ranking officials and experts who outlined their respective roles within the proposed mechanism. Attendees included the Chiefs of Staff of the Navy and Air Force, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army, and the Director Generals of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), and the Civil Security Department (CSD). Senior officials from the Ministries of Defence, Health, Youth Affairs and Sports, Education, and Tourism, as well as representatives from the Sri Lanka Police and the Sri Lanka Life Saving Association (SLLSA), were also present to share their insights and concerns.