In the wake of devastating floods triggered by Cyclone Ditwah across Sri Lanka’s Western Province, Round Table Sri Lanka (RTSL) has taken a leading role in emergency humanitarian relief, earning recognition for one of the fastest response efforts seen during the crisis.
As floodwaters submerged entire neighbourhoods and cut off road access, RTSL launched its first large-scale relief mission in Welampitiya. Families stranded for several days received emergency food parcels, dry rations, medicines, and bedsheets, offering immediate relief amid worsening conditions. With waters continuing to rise, RTSL rapidly expanded its operations to reach flood-hit communities across multiple districts.
Despite submerged roads and hazardous terrain, volunteer teams manoeuvred through difficult conditions to ensure aid reached the most vulnerable. By 2 December 2025, RTSL had distributed over 10,000 food parcels and more than 1,000 dry ration packs. In addition, the organisation coordinated and assisted in over 100 rescue operations, helping evacuate residents trapped by floodwaters.
Recognising that many areas were entirely inaccessible by land, RTSL initiated airlift operations to deliver essential supplies. Working in partnership with Yahaguna Padanama and with logistical support from Expolanka, dry rations and food parcels were transported via Air Force helicopters to isolated communities, ensuring uninterrupted assistance where conventional relief routes had failed. Fundraising efforts remain ongoing to sustain food distribution, rescue logistics, and airlift operations.
RTSL attributes the success of its relief mission to the dedication of its volunteer force. Teams have worked extended hours in waterlogged and high-risk environments, maintaining safety while delivering life-saving assistance. Their commitment has reinforced RTSL’s reputation for speed, reliability, and compassion during national emergencies.
The relief initiative has been spearheaded by RTSL Chairman Avanka William, whose leadership played a decisive role in the rapid mobilisation. William coordinated frontline logistics, organised both local and international fundraising campaigns, and personally entered high-risk flood zones to oversee the delivery of food, medication, and essential supplies. His visible presence on the ground helped galvanise public support and donations nationwide.
Operational coordination has been led by Randhike Cooray, who managed dispatch operations, volunteer deployment, resource movement, and ground-level logistics. His oversight ensured relief operations were carried out efficiently and safely, even under constantly changing conditions.
RTSL also acknowledged the vital support extended by its partner organisations, including Ladies Circle Sri Lanka, 41er’s Club Sri Lanka, Tangent Sri Lanka, and the wider Round Table International family. Their contributions ranging from financial assistance to volunteer manpower significantly expanded the reach and impact of relief operations.
As Sri Lanka transitions from emergency response to recovery, RTSL confirmed that it will continue ration distributions, coordinate further airlift missions, assist displaced families, and remain engaged in long-term rehabilitation efforts.
