In its ongoing commitment to safeguard communities and infrastructure from the threat of landslides, the National Building Research Organization (NBRO) recently organized a comprehensive study tour for its staff. Held on the 8th and 9th of March 2024, the tour aimed to deepen understanding and enhance skills related to landslide mitigation activities.
With the NBRO playing a pivotal role as the focal point for landslide reduction efforts in Sri Lanka, this initiative was designed to familiarize approximately 120 employees with the organization's mission and the critical tasks it undertakes. The tour provided an invaluable opportunity for participants to gain firsthand insights into the challenges posed by landslides and the strategies employed to mitigate their impact.
During the two-day study tour, NBRO staff embarked on a journey to various landslide-mitigated locations nestled within the hill country area. Guided by experts in the field, participants had the chance to witness firsthand the implementation of measures aimed at reducing landslide risks. From observing the installation of monitoring equipment to exploring innovative engineering solutions, the tour provided a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted approach employed by the NBRO in its mission to enhance resilience against landslides.
The 13th Annual Research Symposium 2023 themed Building Resilience: 40 Years in Retrospect, organized by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), was successfully held on 29th February 2024 at the Galadari Hotel, Colombo. This significant event witnessed the participation of public and private sector institutions, academia, professional bodies, international and regional partner agencies, and individual eminent experts in similar disciplines.
Inaugural Session:
- The event commenced with Hon. Kanaka Herath, the State Minister of Technology, serving as the chief guest
- Eng. (Dr.) Asiri Karunawardene, Director General of NBRO, delivered the welcome address
- Mr. Yamada Tetsuya, the Chief Representative of JICA Sri Lanka Office, addressed the audience
- Mr. Dennis Mombauer, Director of Research & Knowledge Management at SLYCAN Trust Global, delivered the keynote address
- Special launchings related to the symposium, including the symposium proceedings, took place during the session
Panel Discussion:
- The symposium began with a panel discussion on “Resilience in the Built Environment: Strategic Interventions,” moderated by Prof. Chintha Jayasinghe
- The discussion covered five sub-themes, with contributions from esteemed experts
1. Dr. Ananda Mallawatantri on Built Environment Adaptation to Minimize Impacts of Climate Change
2. Mr. Sakurazawa Takafumi on Minimizing the Risk of Geo-Hazards in Japan
3. Archt. Ananda Samarasinghe on Climate-Responsive and Affordable Designing
4. Prof. Ranjith Dissanayake on Transforming to Resilient Construction Practices
5. Dr. Gamini Jayathissa on Creating Landslide Resilience in the Built Environment
Technical Sessions:
The day featured four technical sessions related to the main theme, with a total of nineteen research presentations.
1. TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS FOR LANDSLIDE RISK MANAGEMENT chaired by Prof. Udeni Nawagamuwa
2. INNOVATIONS IN RESILIENCE BUILDINGS chaired by Prof. S.M.A. Nanayakkara
3. EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES FOR RESILIENT SETTLEMENTS chaired by Plnr. (Dr.) C. Abenayake
4. SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING chaired by Mrs. Sardhanee Dias, Environmental Consultant/Former Director, NBRO
NBRO extends heartfelt gratitude to all parties, including invitees, researchers, academics, funding agencies, and participants, for their contributions towards the success of the event.
A demonstration session on drone capabilities in development efforts and Disater Risk Management took place on January 22, 2024, in Colombo. RNH International (Pvt.) Ltd. and the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) collaboratively organized this event. The Chairman of RNK International (Pvt.) Ltd. warmly welcomed everyone, starting the session that aimed to discuss about using drones for minimizing risks and promoting development. NBRO's Director General Eng. (Dr.) Asiri Karunawardana spoke about how NBRO has been leading in using drones for handling landslide risks. The State Minister of Defence, Honorable Minister Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, also spoke, highlighting the government's commitment to a digitalized nation and the essential role of drones in disaster management. Aereo India Limited experts demonstrated innovative drone products that could transform disaster responses and development efforts. Representatives from various institutions, including the Sri Lanka Army, Air Force, Navy, Police, Disaster Management Centre (DMC), Civil Aviation Authority, Survey Department, Urban Development Authority (UDA), Irrigation Department, and ICTA, actively participated. This collaborative effort encouraged sharing knowledge and ideas, paving the way for creative solutions and progress towards a safer and technologically advanced Sri Lanka.
As part of the Anticipatory Action Project implemented in Nuwara Eliya district, World Vision Sri Lanka yesterday (9th January 2024) donated three (03) automated rain gauges to National Building Research Organisation. These rain gauges will be strategically placed at Dimbulla Police Station, Holmwood Tamil School, and St. Coombs Upper Division in Nuwara Eliya district, seamlessly integrating with NBRO's landslide early warning system. Acknowledging the positive impact of this collaborative initiative, the NBRO expresses gratitude to World Vision Sri Lanka and eagerly anticipates future partnerships to further strengthen their disaster resilience efforts.