In the azure waters surrounding Sri Lanka, a silent yet relentless force operates with unmatched dedication and bravery. The Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG), often overshadowed by larger institutions, has proven to be a critical line of defence, not just for the nation’s maritime security but for countless lives, both human and marine. Their story in 2024 is one of extraordinary courage and an unyielding drive to serve.
A Year Defined by Bravery and Service
The year 2024 marked a key chapter in the SLCG’s legacy. With 252 successful lifesaving operations conducted this year alone, the Coast Guard has reaffirmed its role as a guardian of Sri Lanka’s shores. These rescues bring the total number of lives saved by the SLCG since its inception to an astounding 2,367. These numbers, however, tell only part of the story. Behind every statistic lies a tale of daring action, split-second decisions and lives forever changed.
The Sri Lanka Coast Guard operates 16 strategically located lifesaving posts around the island, ensuring safety for visitors at key coastal destinations. These posts, positioned in high-traffic and high-risk areas, provide vigilance and quick response to emergencies, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a safe destination for beachgoers. Further enhancing this network, three new lifesaving posts are set to be established—two in Bentota and one in Kirinda—expanding the reach and efficiency of lifesaving operations. A detailed map showcasing these lifesaving points underscores the Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding lives and supporting tourism across the island’s stunning coastline.
Key Lifesaving Locations
The coastline of Sri Lanka, while breathtakingly beautiful, can be perilous. In 2024, three locations stood out as the epicenters of lifesaving activity.
- Mirissa Lifesaving Post– 86 lives saved
- Hikkaduwa Lifesaving Post – 48 lives saved
- Gopalapuram Lifesaving Post – 45 lives saved
These points represent more than just geographic locations. They are battlegrounds where the SLCG’s lifesavers, armed with nothing but their training and courage, fight daily to turn the tide against tragedy.
Saving Lives Beyond Borders
In a world increasingly defined by division, the SLCG’s efforts transcend nationalities. In 2024, their lifesaving missions included,
- Sri Lankans– 120 lives saved
- Russians– 67 lives saved
- Australians– 8 lives saved
- Indians– 7 lives saved
Additionally, SLCG rescued 50 more lives, comprising individuals from 26 different countries worldwide apart from the countries above mentioned.
These figures underscore the Coast Guard’s commitment to humanity as a whole.
The Faces of Courage 2024 Top Lifesavers
Behind every rescue are the individuals who risk everything to save others. This year, three names stood out,
(1) Leading Seaman ARMS Weerasingha (XS 84537)- 45 rescues
(2) Leading Seaman HAA Jayalal (VA 64074)- 36 rescues
(3) Leading Seaman BCP Wimalarathna (XS 50938)- 34 rescues
These lifesavers represent the best of the SLCG. Their stories are a testament to the extraordinary bravery and skill that define this elite force. Their actions inspire not only their colleagues but also the nation at large.
Statistics may provide an overview, but they fail to capture the emotional and psychological weight carried by the SLCG’s lifesavers. Every operation is a race against time, with lives hanging in the balance. These men face treacherous conditions, battling raging seas and unpredictable weather to ensure the safety of others.
A Lifesaver’s Day, A 24-Hour Commitment
The work of an SLCG lifesaver doesn’t end with the setting sun. From dawn to dusk, they patrol beaches and respond to emergencies. But their duties extend far beyond human lives. After nightfall, these dedicated individuals take on a new role- protectors of marine life.
In 2024, SLCG personnel recovered 60,473 sea turtle eggs, carefully relocating them to hatcheries. Their efforts ensured the successful release of 36,743 hatchlings, safeguarding the future of these endangered species. This dual responsibility, saving lives by day and protecting marine ecosystems by night, speaks volumes about the SLCG’s unwavering dedication.
Lifesavers have taken up the critical responsibility of sea turtle conservation because these majestic sea creatures are classified as endangered. Facing threats from habitat loss, poaching, pollution and climate change, sea turtles are at risk of extinction without human intervention. Recognizing their dynamic role in maintaining marine ecosystems, the lifesavers diligently patrol beaches at night, locating and relocating turtle eggs to protected hatcheries to shield them from predators and hum
an interference. By ensuring the safe release of hatchlings back into the ocean, they contribute to the survival of these ancient species, demonstrating a profound commitment to preserving Sri Lanka’s natural heritage for future generations.
Training the Lifesavers of Tomorrow
At the heart of the SLCG’s success lies its premier Lifesaving Training School in Balapitiya. This institution is more than just a training facility, it is a beacon of hope, producing lifesavers equipped to face the toughest challenges.
Comprehensive Training Programmes
The school offers a range of courses, including Basic, Intermediate, Bronze, Pool, Instructor and Silver levels. In 2024 alone, 222 individuals were trained, adding to the total of 4,406 lifesavers produced since the school’s inception. Trainees included personnel from the SLCG, Sri Lanka Navy, Army and Air Force, universities and the civilian sector.
Institutional Training
The school also extends its expertise to institutions, ensuring that lifesaving skills are disseminated widely. In 2024, courses were conducted for,
- SLCG personnel
- Sri Lanka Navy
- Sri Lanka Army
- Sri Lanka Air Force
This collaborative approach strengthens the nation’s overall emergency response capabilities.
Lifesaving Across Demographics
The diversity of individuals saved by the SLCG in 2024 highlights the breadth of their mission.
- By Gender:
- Male: 174
- Female: 78
- By Age:
- Below 18 years: 60
- Between 18 and 65 years: 184
- Above 65 years: 8
These figures reflect the SLCG’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies involving people of all ages and backgrounds.
A Decade of Progress
Over the years, the SLCG has steadily increased its lifesaving capacity. The year-wise statistics tell a story of growth and resilience. These numbers, while impressive, are a testament to the relentless efforts of the SLCG’s personnel, who continue to push boundaries year after year.
The Unsung Heroes
With only 158 trained lifesaving personnel, including 40 stationed at critical posts, the SLCG operates with remarkable efficiency. Their work often goes unnoticed, but its impact is profound. These are the individuals who face the unknown every day, driven by a single mission- to save lives.
These lifesavers are not confined to the coastal belt, their versatility and dedication extend to inland waters during emergencies and specialized tasks. Whether it’s responding to flooding, assisting with inland waterway rescues or supporting events in lakes and rivers, these lifesavers are always ready to act. Their adaptability and swift response capabilities ensure that safety and support reach wherever it’s needed, reflecting their unwavering commitment to protecting lives across the nation.
The Bigger Picture
The dedicated work of Sri Lanka Coast Guard lifesavers has a deep impact on enhancing the safety and appeal of the country’s coastal regions, directly contributing to the growth of tourism. Their unwavering commitment, from patrolling popular beaches to conducting high-risk rescues, ensures a secure environment for both local and international visitors. This sense of safety nurtures confidence among tourists, especially those engaging in water-based activities such as swimming, snorkeling and surfing. By safeguarding lives and maintaining a reassuring presence along the coast, these lifesavers play a key role in positioning Sri Lanka as a premier travel destination, boosting tourism revenue and strengthening the nation’s reputation for hospitality and natural beauty.
Further, Sri Lanka Coast Guard lifesavers extend their dedication beyond daylight hours through turtle patrols, safeguarding the island’s marine biodiversity. These nightly efforts involve locating sea turtle nests, carefully relocating eggs to secure hatcheries and ensuring the safe release of hatchlings into the sea. By protecting endangered sea turtles, these lifesavers contribute to preserving Sri Lanka’s ecological treasures, which attract eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. This vital conservation work not only highlights the country’s commitment to marine sustainability but also enhances its appeal as a destination for responsible and nature-focused tourism.
A Call to Recognize Their Service
The SLCG’s story is one of heroism and humanity. Their silent service- saving lives, protecting marine ecosystems and training others to do the same- deserves recognition and support. As Sri Lankans, we owe them our gratitude. Let us celebrate these unsung heroes and honour their unparalleled contribution to our nation and beyond.
Additionally, the remarkable leadership of Rear Admiral YR Serasinghe, the Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, has been instrumental in driving the lifesaving and conservation efforts of the organization. Rear Admiral Serasinghe’s emphasis on both human and environmental protection has inspired lifesavers to adopt a multifaceted approach, safeguarding lives during the day and protecting marine ecosystems at night. His leadership has not only strengthened the Coast Guard’s operational efficiency but also positioned it as a key player in promoting Sri Lanka as a safe and sustainable tourism destination, earning national and international recognition for their silent yet impactful service.
“Sri Lanka Coast Guard- Safe, Secure and Serene Sea”
