Relief efforts underway for people affected by armoury explosion - PM

By Ashwin Hemmathagama – Our Lobby Correspondent

Relief efforts for people affected by the explosion that occurred in the Salawwa armoury is now underway and the Government expects to clear all wells and water sources in the vicinity during the next three days. Electricity supply to the area is expected to be restored, and losses will be estimated so as to move the compensation process forward.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing the Parliament yesterday said: “The Government has its full attention on this matter. Many of us visited the site, which looks more like a battle field. The military limited our movement with unattended explosives lying around freely. Estimating the damages commenced yesterday with army engineers and other professionals. The army was able to finish repairs of 11 houses. 

“During the next 72 hours, we will repair the houses with minor damages. But two weeks will be taken to finish repairs of houses with certain damages. Two months will be taken to repair the seriously damaged houses. I have instructed for a speedy process. Three infantry regiments along with medical teams are already onsite to look after the welfare [activities]. We have agreed to pay Rs. 50,000 on a monthly basis for three months to each household to meet the cost of living. Banks will move in at a later stage to provide assistance to re-establish livelihoods. Most importantly, some are trying to create tension between the army and the public. I have witnessed a similar situation in Pakistan. It is not acceptable to see people going against the military,” added PM Wickeremasinghe .

According to Chief Opposition Whip and JVP MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the Government should have taken effective but fast action to provide relief and, most importantly, to educate the victims about the relief mechanism. “The Government has failed to take a stock of the devastation. According to sources, there are over 300 houses unsuitable for reoccupation. Many are stranded in the absence of a house and employment. People are protesting against the Government for not being able to take prompt action to provide relief,” charged MP Dissanayake.