Sri Lanka took a significant step toward enhancing its disaster management systems on 12 December 2025 with the launch of the GeoAI for Disaster Resilience initiative at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo. The initiative integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to improve early warning mechanisms, strengthen emergency response, and support long-term disaster planning.
The launch event began with a one-minute silence to honour the victims of Cyclone Ditwah, the powerful storm that struck the country last month and caused severe flooding across multiple regions.
Cyclone Ditwah affected more than one million people and resulted in hundreds of deaths. It has been described as the most severe natural disaster to impact Sri Lanka since the 2004 tsunami. The widespread destruction has also delayed the nation’s economic recovery, with large-scale reconstruction efforts still ongoing in several districts.
Delivering the welcome address, ADRIMP President Sarath Premalal highlighted the growing need for innovation in disaster risk management, noting that climate-related threats are becoming more frequent and intense. He said GeoAI enables authorities to anticipate hazards more accurately while ensuring emergency responders have access to critical data and modern tools to save lives.
The yearlong program has attracted over 20 government officials and 125 university students. Supported by the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, the initiative aims to develop a new generation of specialists skilled in applying GeoAI technologies to disaster preparedness and response.
GeoAI Project Lead Dr. Novil Wijesekara said the program is designed to strengthen the entire disaster management ecosystem. He explained that by combining real-time data with predictive modelling, Sri Lanka can transition from reactive disaster response to proactive, intelligence-led preparedness. He also emphasised that while technology plays a key role, human commitment remains essential to effective recovery.
Digital Economy Ministry Acting Secretary Waruna Sri Dhanapala stressed that digital transformation is vital for Sri Lanka’s future. He said GeoAI would help integrate fragmented data systems, improve coordination among institutions, and enable faster, evidence-based decision-making during emergencies.
Highlighting operational benefits, Disaster Management Centre Director General Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda said timely information can be critical during disasters. He noted that GeoAI tools would provide emergency teams with valuable lead time during floods, landslides, and cyclones, directly supporting frontline responders.
Serving as chief guest, US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Jayne A. Howell reaffirmed continued US support for the initiative, describing the investment in students as an investment in Sri Lanka’s long-term safety and resilience.
University of Colombo Vice Chancellor Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilaka, the guest of honour, spoke on the role of youth in national recovery efforts. He said the program would equip young people with advanced skills and greater awareness, enabling them to play a vital role in rebuilding communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
The launch brought together representatives from technical agencies and development partners. Over the next year, participants will receive training in hazard mapping, drone-based data analysis, predictive modelling, and real-time emergency response technologies.
As climate-driven disasters continue to intensify both locally and globally, the GeoAI initiative is expected to significantly strengthen Sri Lanka’s disaster preparedness, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and position the country as a regional leader in AI-powered disaster resilience.