President Meets Party Leaders; Calls for Unified Action on Disaster Relief

Colombo- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake urged public representatives from both the government and the opposition to work together efficiently to save the lives of the affected population and provide necessary relief during this difficult time.

The President made these remarks while attending a special discussion this morning (28th) at the Tri-Forces Defence Headquarters, convened to review the urgent disaster situation and future relief efforts arising from the adverse weather conditions.

Emergency Powers and Financial Assurance

Opposition Members of Parliament suggested that a State of Emergency be declared, if necessary, to enhance the efficiency of rescue and relief services amidst the critical situation. The opposition pledged their full support should such a measure be implemented.

President Dissanayake assured the attendees that funding will not be an obstacle in providing relief. He noted that District Disaster Management Committees have already been convened, and a certain amount of funds has been released to District Secretaries for necessary expenditures. The President stressed that no circular will hinder the expenditure of these funds; if any such barrier arises, District Secretaries have been authorized to spend the money with the consensus of the District Coordinating Committee.

Rescue and Relief Operations

The President mentioned that helicopter facilities are being utilized to rescue people trapped in locations inaccessible to ground relief teams. Furthermore, he noted that the Indian High Commission has agreed to provide helicopter support, if needed, for rescue operations.

The provision of cooked food, dry rations, and health facilities to those in safe camps, those remaining in their homes, and those sheltered in other locations is currently underway without interruption. The President instructed the public representatives to immediately inform the Disaster Management Centre if any areas in their districts are not receiving relief services.

The President also confirmed that necessary programs have been planned to address the escalating dangerous situation within the Western Province.

Party representatives, including Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, along with ministry secretaries, tri-forces commanders, and security sector senior officials, attended the critical meeting.(PMD)