Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera - Deputy Minister of Defence

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, heavy rainfall over the past few days led to several incidents across numerous districts, but no area has escalated into a major disaster situation. Through timely inter-agency coordination, events have been effectively managed.

¶ 02 As stated, about 14 districts are affected, with incidents reported in 67 Divisional Secretariat divisions. In total, 2,351 families—about 9,392 persons—have been impacted at varying levels. Specifically, in Galle alone, 1,009 families (about 3,506 persons) are affected. Families impacted include Kurunegala (257), Matale (53), and Kalutara (27). While not directly due to floods, three deaths were reported from Anuradhapura, Kegalle, and Kandy districts, and one person remains missing in Kegalle. Due to strong winds and embankment failures, 377 houses suffered partial damage.

¶ 03 In Colombo District, 32 affected families are staying with relatives. A shelter has been established in Thibirigasyaya, housing approximately 30 persons from 8 families temporarily. Weather alerts from the Department of Meteorology and flood/landslide warnings from the Road Development Authority and National Building Research Organization have been communicated to all at-risk communities.

¶ 04 The Disaster Management Centre’s Emergency Operations Centre operates 24/7. The 117 emergency hotline is open for public communication. Relief Service Centres are functioning to assist affected families, coordinating with district and divisional administrations. Roads and railway lines affected by recent rains are being restored, with services expected largely to normalize by today or tomorrow.

¶ 05 Rainfall intensity is decreasing, and conditions are forecast to normalize. We continue close monitoring and stand ready for rapid response. The DMC, relief services, Met Department, Health, NBRO, Tri-Forces, Police, Civil Security Department, and district/divisional administrations are engaged.

¶ 06 Thank you.