As disaster relief continues, the Minister insists that helping the needy matters more than minor distribution errors, while assuring that no affected family will be left behind.
Several key issues received special attention during discussions led by the Minister on the current disaster relief operations. Decisions were taken on improving infrastructure facilities at security centers, including food and drinking water, the education of displaced children, and the future processes linked to long term rehabilitation. Special attention was also given to the proposal to relocate all displaced people from each center to a military training facility to provide safer and more organized shelter. The Minister stressed that such decisions must be made only after proper discussion with the people concerned.
Officials informed the meeting that special teams would be deployed to clean wells filled with silt and debris. They confirmed that all main roads in the affected areas are now suitable for traffic, while several local roads are in the process of being restored. The condition of roads in the Meemure area was discussed in detail, and alternative routes were also introduced to ensure uninterrupted access.
The Minister emphasized that assistance must be extended even to those who have not reached security centers but remain affected by the disaster. He instructed officials to prepare a clear and fair procedure for distributing such relief.
He further stated that the real issue is when a person who deserves assistance does not receive it. “It is not a big problem for someone who should not receive assistance to receive assistance,” he said, adding that all distributions must follow correct procedures. He assured that there are no locations where nothing has been received and urged anyone facing such an issue to contact the Divisional Secretary or Disaster Committee.
The Minister praised the dedication of officials and the collective commitment of the people, stating that these efforts made it possible to manage an extremely severe disaster. He also assured that his government will provide a level of relief and support unprecedented in the past and work to raise living standards beyond previous levels. The Kandy District Government Agent, Member of Parliament E.M. Basnayake and other officials attended the event.
