Sri Lanka Navy conducts three CBRN exercises at different port facilities
The Sri Lanka Navy has conducted three separate CBRN emergency response training exercises at the Port of Trincomalee in the east of the country, at the Port of Colombo in the west, and at Hambantota International Port in the south.
According to information published by the Sri Lanka Navy, two exercises both took place on 31 March 2026.
The exercise at the Port of Trincomalee was organised by the CBRN unit of the Eastern Naval Command and showcased a "robust multi-agency approach", drawing representatives from the Disaster Management Centre, Sri Lanka Ports Authority, Marine Environment Protection Authority, Fire Service Department, Air Force Academy China Bay, 22nd Infantry Division of the Sri Lanka Army and China Bay Police Station.
"During the theoretical sessions of this training workshop, participants were educated on identifying potential chemical hazards, managing toxic chemicals, providing medical treatment to accident victims and enhancing knowledge of CBRN threats," the Sri Lanka Navy wrote. "Meanwhile, the practical sessions provided participants with hands-on experience on the proper handling of safety devices and equipment during a chemical emergency, the safe evacuation of individuals and strategies for the safe disposal of hazardous chemical compounds."
Meanwhile, the exercise at the UCT Jetty at the Port of Colombo involved the CBRN unit of the Western Naval Command and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority fire brigade.
"The drill was organised with the aim to boost preparedness and readiness in handling potential CBRN incidents within the port premises," the Sri Lanka Navy wrote. "Through a simulated scenario, participants sharpened their skills in coordinated response, containment and mitigation strengthening inter-agency collaboration and response capabilities."
Hambantota International Port
The two exercises follow a similar exercise at Hambantota International Port that took place between 3-14 March. On that occasion, the exercise was organised by the CBRN unit of the Southern Naval Command and the programme integrated both theoretical awareness and practical drills.
"The sessions saw the participation of naval personnel attached to SLNS Kawantissa, alongside key stakeholders from the Hambantota International Port, including its emergency response unit, safety section and the safety, health and environment section," the Sri Lanka Navy wrote.
"During the theoretical session, training activities were conducted on potential chemical accidents at the dangerous goods yard, including the decontamination, rescue and referral of accident victims for medical treatment, the management of spilled chemicals and the identification of unknown chemical substances."
