December 16, Colombo (LNW): Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has stepped up its humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka by handing over a large shipment of emergency shelter materials to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
The consignment, delivered earlier this week, includes 1,000 insulated family tents and 1,500 heavy-grade plastic sheets designed to withstand cold and wet conditions. MSF said the shelters are intended to offer displaced households a safer and warmer living space, particularly in hill country areas where temperatures drop sharply.
In a statement, the organisation noted that improved shelter is vital to protecting vulnerable families from severe weather and preventing the spread of illness in temporary settlements.
The latest delivery forms part of MSF’s ongoing response to the widespread flooding and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah, which have disrupted the lives of more than 1.8 million people nationwide. Alongside shelter support, MSF teams are working with local authorities and community partners to address urgent needs related to sanitation, health services and essential supplies.
To date, the organisation has also provided 500 emergency relief packs and an equal number of dry food ration kits to families forced from their homes. Preparations are under way to distribute maternity kits and dignity kits in the coming days, aimed at safeguarding maternal health and personal wellbeing in evacuation centres.
David Croft, MSF’s Emergency Coordinator in Sri Lanka, said the provision of winterised tents was a key priority as families face prolonged displacement. He added that MSF remains committed to adjusting its support in line with evolving needs and strengthening cooperation with national and local agencies to ensure aid reaches those most affected.
