December 04, Colombo (LNW): Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo has revealed that nearly 28,500 members of the armed services are now on the ground across the country, working around the clock to assist communities struck by the recent spell of destructive weather.
Their efforts range from emergency evacuations to clearing debris and helping restore day-to-day life in areas still reeling from the impact.
According to the Army Commander, tri-forces teams have already brought 31,057 people to safety, often carrying out rescues in difficult terrain and challenging conditions. Officials say operations will continue until all affected regions are stabilised and essential services are fully reinstated.
In a separate update, the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka reported that more than three-quarters of the disrupted communications network is now back online. Director General Air Vice Marshal Bandula Herath (Retd.) noted that engineers are also repairing damaged fibre lines, with priority given to districts where connectivity remains patchy.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau offered reassurance to the international community, confirming that no visiting tourists have suffered serious harm during the disaster. Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam added that travellers can continue to access the country’s key attractions, as most tourism sites and transport links have resumed regular operations despite the wider challenges faced by local communities.
