Provide immediate relief to affected people: President to MPs

Colombo, Nov. 27 (Daily Mirror) - President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed Members of Parliament representing both the Government and the Opposition to urgently intervene in their respective districts to ensure the safety of the public and provide relief to those affected, as severe weather conditions and heavy rainfall are expected to intensify over the next two days.

According to the President Media Division (PMD), the President issued these instructions during a special discussion held this morning (27) at the Parliament complex to review the emerging emergency situation caused by adverse weather and to assess the ongoing relief operations.

President Dissanayake directed MPs to visit their districts and assess the needs of the affected people, while also convening District Coordinating Committees and Regional Development Committees to identify current risks and potential disaster situations. The President stressed that MPs must act promptly and appropriately to safeguard lives and provide necessary relief.

It was decided that this matter would be further discussed at the Party Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for 2.00 p.m. today, as parliamentary and budget debates would be disrupted if MPs were to leave for their districts to provide relief.

The discussion broadly focused on rescue and public safety measures, uninterrupted delivery of health and welfare services to affected communities, and the continuation of essential public services. Special attention was also given to ensuring the smooth conduct of the GCE Advanced Level examination and the continuity of educational activities.