Sri Lanka Lifelines after the December 2004 Great Sumatra Earthquake and Tsunami

Abstract

The water supply and transportation lifeline systems near the coastline of Sri Lanka were the most heavily affected by the December 2004 Great Sumatra earthquake and tsunami. The fishing and tourist industries were devastated; many fishing harbors were heavily damaged. Dozens of bridges in the highway and railroad system were damaged, primarily by erosion and scour. Portions of coastal road were washed away. However, most of the above-grade infrastructure components such as electrical distribution systems, water supply systems, communications systems, and bridges were inland and thus were not affected. Quickly distributing potable water to the affected areas was a challenge. International emergency responders provided portable, then permanent, water treatment facilities. An estimated 60,000 wells were inundated, 12,000 of which will require cleaning. Wells were being restored by pumping out the saltwater. Restoration was limited by the availability of equipment, labor, and supplies of critical resources. Sand for concrete to construct schools, hospitals, and housing was in very limited supply.