Sri Lanka Defence Secretary tackles Colombo garbage and dengue risk

On July 3 2026, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd.) chaired a meeting at the Ministry of Defence to address the growing garbage accumulation in the Colombo Municipal Council area and the heightened risk of a dengue outbreak during the rainy season. He urged a coordinated, swift and sustainable response, calling on Colombo Mayor Vraie Cally Balthazaar, senior navy, army and civil‑security officials, and police representatives to improve waste‑collection systems, redeploy resources and immediately clear accumulated rubbish.

The meeting emphasized long‑term operational efficiency and inter‑agency cooperation to improve environmental conditions and protect public health, outlining practical steps and strategies for a lasting waste‑management solution.