In line with the 75th Anniversary of the SLAF, a beach cleanup programme was conducted yesterday (27 February 2026) along the Negombo coastline. The initiative was organized by the Directorate of Welfare and coordinated by SLAF Base Katunayake as part of the Service’s community outreach and environmental conservation efforts.

The beach area was divided into sectors in accordance with a revised map prepared in coordination with the Department of Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management and the Negombo Municipal Council. Administrative and logistical arrangements, including refreshments, drinking water, and first aid facilities with medical support, were made to facilitate the smooth conduct of the programme.

Approximately 700 participants, comprising SLAF officers, airmen, airwomen and civilian volunteers, took part in the five-hour cleanup operation, covering a 2 km stretch of beach. Representatives from relevant government institutions were also present.

As part of this community-focused initiative, the SLAF arranged for the installation of garbage disposal cages at three selected locations along the Negombo beach to promote proper waste management and environmental responsibility. At the conclusion of the programme, nearly one metric ton of waste was collected and handed over to the relevant authorities for appropriate disposal.