President directs immediate flood relief in Matara

Friday, 6 October 2023 01:49 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Ranil Wickremesinghe

Alerts issued to other potentially vulnerable districts as precaution

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has issued direct instructions to Government officials, including the Matara District Secretary, to assess the urgent needs of the flood-affected people in the Matara District, resulting from heavy rainfall. The President has emphasised the necessity of swiftly implementing relief measures.

The President's directives also encompass the provision of vital facilities such as cooked meals and medication to those affected, along with the engagement of the armed forces to ensure the efficient delivery of aid.

Additionally, the President has alerted relevant agencies to formulate contingency plans for the safety and well-being of the populace in the event of worsening flood situations.

In the interim, the President issued directives to relevant Government departments to remain vigilant regarding potential disaster situations that may arise in other districts due to adverse weather conditions.

A total of 9,448 individuals from 2,350 families across 16 Divisional Secretariat Divisions in the Matara district have been impacted by various calamities including floods, strong winds, landslides, heavy rains, rock falls and tree falls. Among these, 399 houses have sustained partial damage, with 37 other properties affected.

Community food processing centres have been established in Malambada, Akurassa, Kamburupitiya and Thihagoda to provide meals for those in need.

Currently, 6,967 families comprising 25,553 individuals are stranded due to the floods and the army is actively engaged in providing them with cooked food.

Simultaneously, the Sri Lankan Army has initiated a specialized relief program for the residents of the Malimbada Divisional Secretariat Division within the Matara District, which has been severely affected by the flooding.