Govt. increases compensation for weather-related deaths to Rs. 1 Mn

The government has approved a significant increase in compensation for lives lost due to the prevailing severe weather, raising the amount from Rs. 250,000 to Rs. 1 million, the Ministry of Defence said.

 

A special media briefing was held at the Disaster Management Centre in Colombo, chaired by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General (Retired) Aruna Jayasekara, to provide an update on the ongoing disaster situation.

 

According to the Deputy Minister, 19,032 individuals from 5,821 families across 18 districts have been displaced, with 127 Divisional Secretariat Divisions affected. These displaced individuals are being sheltered in 17 relief centres, where provisions such as dry rations and cooked meals are being distributed.

 

The disasters have resulted in two fatalities, 10 houses being completely destroyed, 438 houses partially damaged, and significant losses to small businesses and infrastructure. Two key infrastructures were severely impacted as well.

 

In response, the government, under the guidance of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has allocated Rs. 30 million for immediate disaster relief measures. Displaced individuals will receive daily food rations, with allowances ranging from Rs. 1,800 per person, and additional amounts for larger families.

 

The Deputy Minister also reassured the public that, according to forecasts from the Meteorological Department, the adverse weather is expected to ease in the coming days.