Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

Sri Lanka

Tsunami disaster: Sri Lanka Update 7 Mar 2005

The government has announced a plan to rebuild tsunami-affected houses, proposing a 100m buffer zone in the south and a 200m buffer zone in the north and east. Some exceptions apply.

Progress on the construction of transit camps is slow with difficulties in identifying land acceptable to communities. The issue of the use of tents has yet to be fully resolved within the evolving shelter policy.

A needs assessment in the fisheries sector is complete, covering all the affected districts. Information now exists to identify gaps and oversupply. A clear plan is being developed to take the findings forward.

UNICEF conducted a water and sanitation survey in 319 IDP camps, focusing on facilities within each camp, and people's practices and behaviours. All camps have a safe water supply but, as summer approaches, the demand for water will increase. Current indications are that emerging needs will be met.

Safe storage, treatment and disposal of human waste remains a key issue. The identification of land for processing plants is likely to be difficult. The monsoon will start in some districts over the next month so technical and practical low-cost solutions are needed.

The government has appealed to donors to limit incoming consignments to the most essential non-food items, stating that most items are available locally.