Nuwara Eliya Roads in Sri Lanka at Risk as Landslides Wreak Havoc, Motorists Warned to Avoid Travel at Night

Published on December 12, 2025

Nuwara Eliya, a popular hill station in Sri Lanka, is currently grappling with a heightened risk of landslides, prompting local authorities to issue a strong warning for motorists. The District Secretary has advised travelers to avoid using any road leading to Nuwara Eliya during the night, citing dangerous conditions that could worsen due to continuous adverse weather. The warning comes after an earth mound collapsed along the Gampola–Nuwara Eliya main road, specifically at Katukithula, which, despite being temporarily cleared, remains unstable.

Gampola–Nuwara Eliya Road: Ongoing Landslide Risk
The Gampola–Nuwara Eliya road, a vital route for those traveling to the hill country, has experienced significant disruptions. A recent landslide along this key road at Katukithula raised serious concerns for authorities. Although the road has been cleared for temporary use, the earth mound remains unstable. The District Secretary has cautioned that continuous rainfall and adverse weather could easily trigger further earth slips, making it extremely risky for motorists to travel along this stretch of the road. This ongoing vulnerability presents a serious threat to public safety, particularly for those traveling at night when conditions are even more hazardous.

Continuous Adverse Weather Conditions Worsen Risks
The adverse weather conditions, which have been affecting Nuwara Eliya and surrounding regions for several days, are expected to continue. The persistent rain and winds have caused the soil to become saturated, increasing the likelihood of further landslides and earth slips along multiple access roads to Nuwara Eliya. Authorities have warned that the road infrastructure, already weakened by the recent collapse, could face further damage in the coming days, particularly if the weather conditions do not improve. This heightened risk further underlines the need for caution, especially when traveling after dark.

Advisory for Motorists and Tourists: Avoid Night-Time Travel
Local authorities are strongly advising both residents and tourists to avoid traveling through the Nuwara Eliya district during the night. As the situation is expected to remain unstable for the foreseeable future, the District Secretary has emphasized that it is crucial for travelers to reconsider their plans, particularly those who were planning evening or night journeys. Motorists should be aware that even though some roads have been cleared temporarily, the risks remain significant. The safety of travelers depends on staying informed and being proactive in following the advisory, as road conditions can change rapidly in such unpredictable weather.

Impact on Transportation and Local Travel
The travel advisory has profound implications for both local residents and the tourism sector. Nuwara Eliya, known for its cool climate and stunning hill-country landscapes, is a major tourist destination, particularly popular with both local and international travelers seeking respite from the coastal heat. However, the current road closures and safety warnings have disrupted travel plans for many. The region’s transport network is vital for visitors traveling to and from key attractions, hotels, and resorts. With limited access to and from the region, local businesses, especially those in the hospitality sector, could experience reduced footfall, which will impact the economy of the area during the peak travel season.

Government Measures and Emergency Response Plans
In response to the escalating threat of landslides, the government has activated emergency protocols to monitor the situation closely. While the landslide-affected roads are being cleared as quickly as possible, the unstable terrain continues to pose a serious challenge. Authorities have placed teams on standby to address any emergencies that may arise. The District Secretary has confirmed that additional resources are being allocated to clear debris and conduct thorough inspections to assess the safety of the roads. Emergency response teams will be on hand to assist with any accidents or road closures, ensuring that quick action can be taken if required.

Tourism and Local Economy Threatened by Travel Disruptions
Tourism is one of the most important sectors for Nuwara Eliya’s economy, and any disruption in travel can have a long-lasting impact on the local economy. As travelers are advised to avoid night-time journeys, the region faces the potential loss of income from tourism, particularly as Nuwara Eliya is a favored destination for tourists seeking cooler temperatures, scenic beauty, and a peaceful retreat. Hotels, tour operators, and local businesses are already feeling the effects of reduced mobility, as visitors are forced to reconsider their travel plans or seek alternative routes. The district’s ability to recover from these disruptions will depend on how swiftly authorities can manage the situation and restore full access to the region.

Ensuring Public Safety Amidst Continued Risks
The landslide risk in Nuwara Eliya remains high, and travelers are urged to stay vigilant. As weather conditions continue to challenge the safety of local roads, residents and tourists alike must adhere to the safety guidelines issued by authorities. It is crucial for the public to remain informed, monitor the latest weather reports, and avoid unnecessary travel during high-risk hours, particularly at night. While the situation is being closely monitored, the authorities continue to focus on mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of all those traveling in and around the Nuwara Eliya district.