Epidemic Risk Looms as Floodwaters Recede

 Assistant Secretary of the National Disaster Relief Services Centre, Mr. Jayatissa Munasinghe, emphasized that as the current flood situation gradually recedes, there is a severe risk of spreading epidemic and vector-borne diseases, and the public should exercise extreme caution in this regard.

Speaking at a special press conference held today (01) at the Tri-Forces Security Headquarters, he stated that steps have been taken to provide 50 million rupees to each Divisional Secretariat to facilitate uninterrupted procurement activities for streamlining relief efforts for the affected population.

In addition to banking the dry rations allowance provided to the affected people as cash, Divisional Secretaries have also been empowered to provide dry food packs based on need.

Under this allowance provided for 07 days, funds have been allocated as follows: Rs. 2,100 for a single person, Rs. 4,200 for a family of two, Rs. 6,300 for three people, Rs. 8,400 for four people, and Rs. 10,500 for families of five or more. Relief is permitted to be provided as deemed appropriate based on committee decisions and the prevailing situation in the area.

The government has also decided to provide an advance payment of Rs. 10,000 to clear mud and debris from flood-damaged houses and make them suitable for habitation. According to a revised circular issued by Defense Secretary Mr. Sampath Thuyyakontha, every resident affected by the disaster is entitled to this allowance, regardless of house ownership, the Assistant Secretary pointed out.

Communication services that had broken down in severely affected areas are currently being restored, and the National Disaster Relief Services Centre urges the public to provide maximum cooperation to the officers engaged in relief efforts, as they are working with great dedication in the face of this catastrophic situation.