Fire breaks out at Army Ammunition Depot in Kosgama

As a result of an ammunition depot exploding in Salawa area, Kosgama action is being taken to

Certain particles were observed by villagers as radiating high up. According to information received, explosives in the category of R.G.P. multi-barrels that are capable of causing large explosions are found in the depot. For the purpose of preventing an unanticipated damage because of such explosions, the security forces have taken measures to evacuate the people in this manner. It was for this reason that villagers in parts of Kosgama, Pugoda, Kaluaggala and Hanwella had been advised to leave their homes. Whatever it is, since such an announcement was made unawares, most people had begun to flee along roads with just the clothes that were on their bodies. As there had been an obstruction where buses were travelling, they have had to make their journeys on foot. Some people had fled from boats and barges, it was reported.

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Update 8.00 pm

A huge explosion and a sudden fire has broken out at the Army Camp Ammunition Depot around 5.45 this evening in Salawa area, Kosgama and for that reason people living in the range of 6 - 7 kiolometres were notified to leave their places of abode. A massive smoke cloud was seen going up towards the skies and some inhabitants have left their homes and were seen fleeing on foot for a number of kilometres, it was reported.

What Army Spokesman Brigadier Mr. Jayanath Jayaweera said was that special Army, Air Force and Navy battalions were deployed to control the fire. The Army Spokesman also makes a request to avoid people to visit the place. As a result of the fire the road between Kauaggala and Avissawella along High Level Road has been totally closed temporarily. The reason for the explosion has still not been revealed.