Subsidence threatens over 1,600 buildings in Matale

Indika POLKOTUWA

The Building Research Organisation has identified 1,600 to 1,700 buildings and houses in Matale threatened by subsidence in the Earth, a geological condition affecting the area.

Cracks have formed on these buildings as a result of this, the Institute said. The research was carried out on nearly 3,000 buildings located in 84 square kilometres stretching from Ukuwela to Matale, Geologist of the Landslide Unit of the Institute, Asanka Tilakaratne said.

"Following the research, we have mapped out these buildings as mildly, moderately and severely endangered. Most structures fall into the moderately endangered category," he said.

The research report of the Institute points out that a limestone layer stretching under the Earth's surface of these areas has formed caves leading to the disaster.

The condition has spread to the areas in Matale North and Naula forcing the institution to conduct research in these places as well, the geologist said. Dunkolawatta, Dorakumbura, Viharagama, Nagolla, Ukuwela and Ikiriyagolla in the Matale district are under threat of land subsidence, he said.