Sri Lanka has been severely impacted by Cyclone Ditwah, leading to extensive flooding and landslides that have resulted in over 400 fatalities, with many still unaccounted for. Approximately 20,000 homes have been destroyed, and more than one million residents are affected. In response to this crisis, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency and the military has initiated rescue operations using helicopters. Humanitarian aid is being coordinated by both local and international organizations.
Actor and musician GK Reginold has been actively involved in relief efforts, using a motorized fishing boat to deliver food and water to isolated families in Colombo’s suburbs. He noted that some families have not received aid for days. Reginold expressed the importance of ensuring those in distress have at least one meal.
In the Wijerama neighborhood of Colombo, former protestors against former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa have transitioned their activism into relief efforts, establishing a community kitchen that is preparing meals for those affected by the flooding. Sasindu Sahan Tharaka, a social media activist, mentioned that many volunteers are stepping up, some even taking time off work to assist in the kitchen. They have compiled requests for aid and organized food distribution, receiving substantial support from the community.
Online initiatives have emerged, including a public database to coordinate donations and volunteer efforts, as well as websites assisting donors in locating relief camps and identifying essential supplies. Despite the political challenges surrounding the disaster response, with accusations from opposition politicians about the government’s preparedness, a sense of unity is manifesting among citizens as they work together to rebuild. The local communities are demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c058n10727po?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss