Diriya Piyasa takes Thilaka's family to new heaven

Milton Dharmasingha, Bulathsinghala special corr.

Wattamulla: Destined to live in a rickety, shapeless mud hut with roof made of thatch, Ajith Premalal and Thilaka Dilrukshi and their three children might have thought that their life is a disaster. Such huts have few amenities of modern living, and a cemented plastered home, television and radio have been a distant dream for them.

But Diriya Piyasa Programme of Samurdhi Development Project has brought them hope. Thanuja Damayanthi, the Samurdhi Development Officer, has monitored the pathetic situation, and wanted to extend a hand. And, the poor family living in Wattamulla, Anguruwathota was selected to be given a new home under Diriya Piyasa Programme.

It was decided to set up a new house in the 637 GS division in Madurawala Secretariat Division instead of the rickety, old, single roomed shed made of planks and galvanized sheets. Now, with the assistance of Diriya Piyasa Programme of Samuradhi Development Project, Thilaka's family live in a small but charming house built according to the rules of modern masonry and carpentry.

Thanuja Damayanthi said that the they led a very difficult life as they don't do permanent jobs. The husband earned his daily bread by doing some odd jobs. The Samuradhi Development Office who discussed with them about a provision of a house for them decided to help them. Their own plot of land was selected to construct the house.

The foundation for the house was laid in October 2006 and it was completed in February, 2007. Nearby residents, several donors and friends extended help. Samuradhi Development Authority released funs amounting to Rs. 50000.

The house was put up at a cost of around Rs.150,000 and the lucky family settled down in their new house in February 22. Assistant Divisional Secretary D. Somathilaka, Madurawala PS Chairman Pushpajit Sheela Wickrama, Samuradhi Development Authority officials and Samurdhi Development Officer Thanuja Damayanthi took part in the ceremony.

Thilaka Dilrukshi, the owner of the house received the key of the new house offering merits to all those who helped to construct a permanent house for them. Two daughters and the son are all school going children.

Their beaming faces and wide smiles showed that they can continue their studies in a secure house hereafter. Actually it is a moment of joy for all as most of the people in the area including donors helped the poor family to provide them with a good house. What a merit it is?