In its ongoing mission to strengthen Sri Lanka’s resilience to disasters, the Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management Sri Lanka (A-PAD SL) successfully conducted two critical Search-and-Rescue (SAR) refresher trainings in early 2025. These initiatives underscore A-PAD SL’s dedication to boosting operational readiness and fostering essential coordination among responders.

February saw the first training at Mount Lavinia Beach, Western Province, where participants focused on sharing key insights and techniques learned during the Joint Indo-Pacific SAR training in Taiwan. The session included advanced swift water rescue drills such as inflatable rescue boat operations, simulated boat capsizing drills, victim rescue simulation and rope rescue techniques such as rope ascents and stretcher handling to reinforce teamwork and coordinated response in high-pressure environments.

Further elevating these efforts, A-PAD SL organized a community-integrated SAR training session in April at Kala Wewa in the North Central Province. This training was particularly timely, preceding the southwest monsoon season, and innovatively combined swift water rescue exercises with actual deployment during a public event. This real-time integration provided invaluable practical experience, ensuring that responders are prepared for immediate, life-saving action. These focused trainings are a cornerstone of A-PAD SL’s comprehensive strategy to enhance national disaster preparedness and cultivate robust capacities for cross-border emergency response.

Notably, the participating local rescuers have been trained over the years by IRIA-certified trainers from Japan, supported by A-PAD Japan through the Official Development Assistance of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A-PAD SL extends its sincere gratitude to the People of Japan for their continued support in building local capacity for emergency response.

Engaging in boat capsizing drills

Rope rescue drills in  progress 

Rescuers deployed during the community event at Kala Wewa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka

Rescuing a swimmer