Help Rebuild University of Peradeniya : A Call for Action

The Ditwah cyclone-induced flooding caused extensive damage across multiple faculties and common facilities of the University of Peradeniya. The Faculty of Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, and the Faculty of Agriculture were among the most severely affected, with floodwaters damaging lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, auditoriums, cafeterias, recreational areas, and severely disrupting the electricity supply and internet connectivity.

Several retaining walls failed or were critically weakened, increasing the risk of further slope instability and structural damage. Major common university facilities sustained significant damage, including the University Gymnasium, a key venue for sports activities as well as official events such as graduation ceremonies, the swimming pool, and the main university grounds.

Residential infrastructure was also heavily impacted, particularly Sarasavi Medura and Seneka Bibile Halls which together provide accommodation for over 1,300 undergraduate students, resulting in displacement and disruption to student life. Culturally significant landmarks such as the Prof. Ediriweera Sarachchandra Open Air Theatre and essential early childhood facilities including the University Pre-School/Day Care Centre were also damaged.

Of particular concern was the severe impact on the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, "the only Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Sri Lanka", significantly disrupting veterinary education, clinical training, and essential animal healthcare services at the national level.