Aug 14, Colombo: Minister of Internal & Home Affairs and Provincial Councils & Local Government, Vajira Abeywardena says that the Government is prepared to face any disaster situation and all District Secretaries and Divisional Secretaries have been notified to rescue affected persons and provide relief services.

Minister Vajira Abeywardena further stated that all Divisional Secretaries, Grama Niladharis and field officers of the districts affected by heavy rain have been informed of government measures by the Government Agents of those districts.

“Heavy rains have caused disasters in many areas. Many families have been displaced in some places. Also, if there is more rain, this could lead to flooding. Residents of landslide prone areas had to be evacuated as heavy rains continued throughout Tuesday. We have basic preparations for action in case of an emergency. Already the Divisional Secretaries, Grama Niladharis and all field officers have been instructed by the Government Agents on the measures to be taken."

While emphasizing that the government is prepared to face any disaster, the Minister also urged the public to evacuate to safe places as soon as possible in case of heavy rains or landslides in their residential areas and if there is flooding and requested the affected people to inform the Divisional Secretariat through a Grama Niladhari or a Field Officer if any disaster has occurred.

The Minister added that the assistance of the Navy and the Security Forces has been obtained through the Disaster Management Centers to operate in the event of an emergency. He also said that cooked meals and dry rations will be provided by the Divisional Secretariats to the displaced persons.