December 07, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Housing, Construction, and Water Supply has confirmed that a wide-ranging assessment of housing damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah will begin tomorrow (08), marking the next phase of the Government’s relief effort.
A special committee operating under the Presidential Secretariat has been tasked with carrying out the survey, which is expected to cover thousands of affected homes across multiple districts.
Under the newly announced support scheme, each affected household will receive Rs. 25,000 to assist with cleaning and making homes safe for re-entry. In addition, a one-time payment of Rs. 50,000 will be made to help families replace basic household items and support initial resettlement needs, regardless of the legal status of property ownership.
To further cushion the blow suffered by families whose homes were destroyed or whose livelihoods have collapsed entirely, the Government will provide monthly allowances for three months. Smaller families—those consisting of two members or fewer—will receive Rs. 25,000 per month, while households with more than two members will be granted Rs. 50,000 per month for the same duration.
For those left without a roof over their heads, an additional payment of Rs. 25,000 per month has been allocated for temporary accommodation, capped at six months. Officials say this measure is intended to prevent families from falling into long-term displacement while permanent housing solutions are being arranged.
The Ministry noted that the scale of destruction in some areas is still being fully understood, and the assessment beginning tomorrow will help refine ongoing recovery plans. Authorities are urging residents to cooperate with survey teams to ensure aid is distributed swiftly and fairly.
