President instructs to obtain armed forces assistance in relief operations

President Maithripala Sirisena has instructed the relevant officials to obtain the assistance of the armed forces in relief operations and as well as in evacuations in flood-prone areas, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said today.

The President has also instructed the officials to take swift measures to provide relief to those who are affected by severe weather conditions.

The President further said he will coordinate the allocations of funds required for these operations.

This was revealed during a meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat today to discuss the prevailing weather conditions in the country.

As it was forecasted that the showery weather will continue at least for next two months, President Sirisena explained the importance of working strategically with the coordination of all the sectors and the relevant ministries to face the situation.  

Furthermore, the President pointed out the need for managing relief programmes for the public without any hindrance during the upcoming presidential election period.