– A joint mechanism aimed at strengthening emergency response and improving prisoner welfare through regional coordination was established at the Matara Prison yesterday (19).The initiative, launched under the patronage of Justice and National Integration Minister, Attorney-at-Law Harshana Nanayakkara, begins with Matara Prison as the pilot location.

The mechanism has been introduced to ensure a coordinated response among relevant state institutions in the event of an emergency at prisons, while also streamlining measures to protect the welfare of inmates.Matara Prison Superintendent H. D. K. N. Premawansa, Matara District Secretary Chandana Thilakaratne and 16th Infantry Division Commander Major General L. D. Perera attended the event.

Senior officials representing the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Sri Lanka Air Force, Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Army, Police, Matara Divisional Secretariat and the Office of the Medical Officer of Health were also present.The program is expected to strengthen coordination among emergency response agencies and prison authorities during unforeseen situations.