CES Field Visit to Kalu Palama

In a practical extension of their classroom learning, civil engineering students recently conducted a field visit to the Yaka Palama to observe the significant structural damage caused by the overflow of the Mahaweli River. The destruction was primarily attributed to the “Ditwa” weather phenomenon, which triggered extreme water levels that overwhelmed the bridge’s design capacity. Working in organized groups, the students inspected the site to identify specific failure points. This hands-on experience allowed them to analyze real-world issues, such as scouring, hydraulic pressure, and material fatigue, firsthand. Following their observations, each group compiled detailed reports outlining the technical reasons for the damages and proposing potential engineering interventions. This field-based assessment highlighted the critical responsibility engineers hold in safeguarding public infrastructure against climate-related risks.