President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called on officials to provide immediate relief to those affected in disaster-stricken areas by prioritizing on-site information collection rather than relying solely on technological data. Emphasizing the need for a grassroots-level mechanism, the President underscored the importance of swift and effective action to address the crisis.
These directives were issued during a high-level discussion held today (27) at the Presidential Secretariat with state officials, focused on expediting relief services for disaster-affected populations.
Key Directives from the President:
- Relief for Affected Populations:
- Ensure safe shelter, food, water, and sanitary facilities for those displaced.
- Allocate sufficient funds to support relief efforts.
- Establish mechanisms to deliver high-quality services and conduct follow-up investigations to assess needs.
- Support for Students:
- Implement measures to address the mental well-being and challenges of students sitting for the Advanced Level examination amid adverse conditions.
- Safety of Fishermen:
- Identify fishermen currently at sea and provide the necessary resources to ensure their safe return to shore.
Focus on High-Risk Areas
The discussion highlighted the Northern and Eastern Provinces, which have been severely affected by adverse weather. Special attention was given to these regions to expedite disaster relief efforts.
The President also emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among various departments and stakeholders to mitigate the impacts of the disaster effectively.
Officials in Attendance
The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Mr. Ananda Wijepala, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security Mr. Ravi Seneviratne, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, and Director General of the Meteorology Department Mr. A.K. Karunanayake, among others.
These concerted efforts are aimed at ensuring the safety, well-being, and resilience of the affected communities during this challenging time.
