Still reeling from the floods and landslides (described by the media
as the worst since 1947) that have killed at least 300 people and
displaced tens of thousands of people from their homes, the people
of Sri Lanka's lowlands continue to battle raging floodwaters. Local
ACT member, National Council of Churches in Sri Lanka (NCCSL),
reports that the organisation has been overwhelmed with requests for
help. According to NCCSL, tens of thousands of people have fled to
villages in the highlands, taking shelter in churches, schools, temples
and mosques.
NCCSL reports that the immediate needs of people are enormous - access
to clean drinking water is currently one of the biggest problems.
The tens of thousands of people, who have been left homeless by the
floodwaters, also need food and bedding. Damage to property is still
being assessed, but the message is clear that major rehabilitation
will be needed once the floodwaters subside.
The ACT member reports that the government is doing its utmost to
provide relief for the affected families but has appealed to organisations
for help. However, the task is enormous. NCCSL writes that landslides
submerged one whole village, Katuwana, where at least 25 people are
feared dead. Morawaka and Deniyaya, two lowlands are seven feet (2.13
meters) under water, affecting about 25,000 families. Kalu Ganga,
one of the main rivers, has breached its banks, exacerbating the situation.
The death toll for Ratnapura and Matara districts - the worst hit
areas - is feared to run into several hundreds.
The capital, Colombo, also suffered damage to property and although
not confirmed, people are feared dead here too.
NCCSL's immediate response will target 2,200 families (Ratnapura
- 700; Deniyaya - 400; Hinithuma - 300; Galle District - 400 and Matara
District - 400).
The crisis phase relief assistance will include the distribution
of dry rations (rice, dahl, sugar, tea-leaves, tin-fish, flour and
soap) to a value of Rs. 609 per family to 2,200 families; 1 kg milk
powder (Rs 220 per package) for 1,000 families with pregnant and lactating
mothers and clothing to 1,000 families (worth Rs 1,000). Furthermore
six temporary shelters (cadjan sheds - cadjan being a roof covering
made out of coconut leaf) each worth Rs 100,000 and 25 temporary toilets,
each costing Rs 30,000 will be provided.
The initial assistance estimated to amount to US$ 48,479 (crisis
phase assistance US$ 44,316, transport & warehousing US$ 633 and
personnel/administration US$ 3,530) is being transferred to NCCSL
from the ACT Rapid Response Funds.
Meanwhile, NCCSL will request support from Indian ACT member Church's
Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA) and prepare a rehabilitation
programme. ACT CO and NCCSL are in contact about the preparation of
an appeal including both the relief and rehabilitation phases. Your
indications for support are highly appreciated and funds can be sent,
as usual, through the ACT-CO.
