December 14, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed state officials to place the restoration of livelihoods at the forefront of post-disaster recovery efforts, stressing the need for speed, fairness and effective coordination across all sectors.
Addressing a special meeting of the District Coordinating Committee at the Puttalam District Secretariat, the President called for urgent action to compensate affected families and to rapidly revive agriculture, fisheries and local industries. He instructed that all compensation related to crop losses must be fully paid out by December 25.
Describing the recent cyclone as one of the most severe disasters to affect the country in recent years, President Dissanayake praised the armed forces, the Police and public servants for their efforts in stabilising affected areas. He noted that essential services such as electricity, water supply and road networks had already been largely restored due to their commitment.
The President also underscored that the Government’s capacity to extend substantial financial assistance was the result of disciplined fiscal management. At the same time, he acknowledged challenges in the distribution of relief and instructed Divisional Secretaries to ensure that payments are made strictly to eligible recipients, warning against any misuse or deviation from established guidelines.
Infrastructure rehabilitation featured prominently in the discussions, with particular attention given to damaged highways and bridges. The President reviewed obstacles faced during reconstruction and offered immediate solutions in consultation with officials.
He also directed that a temporary structure be erected at the Lower Kala Oya crossing to support tourism until permanent construction is completed, stressing that all projects must be guided by proper technical assessments and real economic need.
Turning to utilities, the President urged authorities to complete the restoration of electricity and water supplies without delay, noting that current well-cleaning efforts in some areas remain inadequate.
On agriculture, he sought updates on preparations for the upcoming Maha cultivation season, calling for swift measures to support farmers, reduce abandoned land and promote alternative methods to maximise productivity.
He reiterated that compensation to farmers must be paid before December 25, regardless of land classification, while also insisting on strict controls to prevent cultivation in protected areas. Soil conservation, particularly in regions such as Kalpitiya, was highlighted as a priority.
The livestock sector was also addressed, with the President calling for equitable compensation and improved data collection. He stressed the importance of registering all livestock farms through new legislative measures to strengthen long-term resilience.
Housing damage in the district was reported to be extensive, with hundreds of homes destroyed and many more partially damaged. The President ordered fast-tracked compensation and prioritised resettlement on state land. Where this is not possible, affected families are to receive Rs. 5 million to secure alternative land, while those who lost homes entirely will be provided with new houses valued at the same amount.
Support for the fisheries sector, including assistance to repair damaged boats and access to fair compensation and concessional loans for prawn farmers, was also discussed. The President further reviewed the status of Chilaw Hospital and was informed that several units are expected to resume normal operations by next week.
The meeting was attended by ministers, deputy ministers, provincial and district officials, Members of Parliament from the area, senior public servants, and representatives of the security forces, reflecting a coordinated approach to recovery and rebuilding efforts in the district.
