Sri Lanka Floods Worsen: NPP Mobilises Rapid Relief Operations

Sri Lanka faces its worst flooding in nearly a decade as Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc across multiple districts, leaving 69 dead, over 200,000 affected, and 18,000 displaced. Water levels continue to rise in Colombo, Gampaha, Negombo, and the western river basins, surpassing markers from the devastating 2016 floods.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed district officials to conduct rescue and relief operations immediately, releasing Rs. 1.2 billion for urgent aid and utilising Rs. 30 billion allocated in the 2025 Budget for emergency needs. To streamline response, the Public Administration Ministry has removed procedural restrictions, and relief centres are now managed by the Sri Lanka Army.

A new Coordination Unit at Defence Headquarters, supported by 10 emergency hotlines, aims to improve communication and rapid deployment of boats, helicopters, and rescue teams. Despite these measures, officials warn that floodwaters in low-lying areas, including Kelani, Maha, and Deduru Oya valleys, continue to rise, requiring immediate evacuation.

 

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