Be Vigilant About Infectious Diseases as Floodwaters Recede
Assistant Secretary of the National Disaster Relief Services Centre, Jayatissa Munasinghe
Assistant Secretary of the National Disaster Relief Services Centre, Jayatissa Munasinghe, urges the public to remain vigilant about the increased risk of infectious and vector-borne diseases as floodwaters and waterlogging begin to recede.
He stated that each Divisional Secretariat has already been allocated Rs. 50 million to provide immediate relief to people affected by the disaster.
Assistant Secretary Munasinghe made these remarks at a media briefing held yesterday (01) at the Defence Headquarters.
He further noted that the amounts provided for relief have been increased, ensuring that funds can be released immediately. Under the emergency disaster situation, each Divisional Secretary is authorised to use up to Rs. 50 million without administrative delays.
The Assistant Secretary further noted that, in addition to the funds already disbursed for dry rations, approval has been granted to provide dry food items in packaged form where necessary. He added that Divisional Secretaries have been authorised to make decisions through the appropriate committee, based on the specific conditions prevailing in their respective areas.
He explained that dry-ration assistance is provided for seven days and the amount can be increased if necessary. Accordingly, Rs. 2,100 is allocated for an individual, Rs. 4,200 for a two-member family, Rs. 6,300 for a three-member family, Rs. 8,400 for a four-member family and Rs. 10,500 for families with five or more members.
Reiterating the heightened risk of infectious and vector-borne diseases as floodwaters recede, Mr. Munasinghe said the health sector is already implementing necessary preventive measures.
Given that many homes affected by floods require cleaning to remove mud and debris, he noted that Section 5(2) of Circular 1(2025) has been amended, enabling the government to provide Rs. 10,000 as an initial grant to each affected household to restore sanitation and make the home safe for living again.
Accordingly, Mr. Jayatissa Munasinghe stated that the allocated compensation will be provided to every affected individual, regardless of property ownership. The relevant circular was issued yesterday by Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha he added.
He further added that communication systems in severely affected areas are gradually being restored. He also appealed to the public to extend their fullest cooperation to relief officers, who are working tirelessly during this challenging period.
