Floods hit 76,000 people

Authorities have intensified relief and rehabilitation measures following flash floods that have affected more than 76,000 people.

Arrangements have been made to provide relief through Government Agents to flood victims, Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services Minister Rishad Bathiudeen said.

About 18,082 families comprising 76,760 persons have been affected in Kalutara, Gampaha, Matara, Galle in the west and Puttalam districts.

An allocation of Rs. 6.3 million has already been made by the Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services Ministry to be given to the District Secretaries. Sixteen houses have been completely damaged and 68 houses partially damaged as a result of the rainy weather followed by floods.

The Disaster Relief Center is monitoring the situation and is operational round the clock and is on stand by to provide emergency relief.

The minister instructed Government Agents to take immediate action to clear areas inundated with rain water by releasing the water in low lying areas if necessary making use of backhoe machines for trench digging.

The government appointed a steering committee in the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to monitor flash floods in the city.

The main objective is to minimise the loss of lives and damage of property, an official said. Chief Fire Officer of Sri Lanka J Kannangara will head the committee and five departmental heads will act as committee members.

The Fire-Chief has personally been asked to attend to monitor and record the flood levels due to the heavy rains in certain places, the official said.

Bathiyutheen said the Disaster Relief Services Center has been kept open round the clock to respond immediately and provide relief services to those who are in need.

He said that additional grants to the District Secretariats will be given in accordance with the necessities that can arise in the coming days.