Navy leads multi-agency coordination to address regional issues

The Northern Naval Command Headquarters convened a multi-agency coordination meeting on 10 Dec 25. The meeting was attended by the Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Buddhika Liyanagamage, District Secretary of Jaffna, Mr. M. Piiratheepan, Divisional Secretaries and representatives from the Road Development Authority, Disaster Management Centre, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Recourses, Ceylon Electricity Board, Customs and Police.

Discussions addressed key operational challenges which encompass curbing illegal fishing by local and foreign vessels, mitigating adverse weather impacts, and combating smuggling in Northern waters.

Participants also reviewed several regional development and maintenance issues, including garbage management, road access, the state of the Kankesanthurai breakwater, disposal of confiscated trawlers, beach-cleaning, dengue prevention, and safety measures for passenger ferries. Specific plans for repairs to the passenger ferries Vadatharaki and Elutharaki, as well as preparations for the upcoming Kachchativu Feast, were examined.

The Northern Naval Command expressed appreciation for the positive engagement of all agencies, noting that the collaborative approach will further strengthen maritime security, enhance safety and support ongoing regional development efforts.