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Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka: Immediate relief provided by Govt. to flood victims

The Government has taken steps to grant immediate relief to flood victims.

Several districts including Colombo, Kalutara, Gampaha and Puttalam were effected by the incessant rains. More than 3600 families in the Wattala area were affected. Over 4100 families were affected by floods in other districts.

Assistant Director of the Disaster Management Centre Pradeep Kodippily said programmes are already in place to grant immediate relief including cooked meals to all effected families.

Minister Wimal Weerawansa toured several areas including Gangodawila, Pengiriwatte and Mirihana to inquire into the needs of the victims. He gave instructions to the officials concerned to provide immediate relief.

He told the officers to prepare a permanent programme for the smooth flow of rain water. Western Provincial Councilor Roger Seneviratne accompanied the Minister in this visit.

Meanwhile, the development of the canal which runs across Delkanda in Nugegoda commenced under the patronage of former Minister Rohitha Bogollagama. The work will cost 900 million rupees. The smooth flow of water has been impeded by unauthorized constructions on either side of the canal and the construction of improper bridges and culverts.