June 07, Colombo (LNW): Media, Transport, and Highways Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana has highlighted the significant difficulties faced by residents of Kelani Valley due to adverse weather conditions and subsequent floods. The affected areas include Puwakpitiya in the Avissawella constituency and the surrounding regions of Jaltara in the Kelani Valley, Kaduwela, and Kolonnawa Constituency.
Speaking at the Homagama Development Committee meeting, Minister Gunawardhana emphasized the severe damage to the Kelani Valley railway line, which hindered access to many provinces. Despite these challenges, efforts have been made to maintain train services, with ongoing relief work to clear soil and address landslides.
The Minister announced that the Cabinet has granted necessary authority to the Road Development Authority, the Railway Department, and other public transport agencies to take urgent measures in response to the disaster situation. Special attention was given to relief efforts for those affected by the inclement weather.
Homagama Divisional Secretary B. A. D. Chinthaka reported that approximately 894 families in the Homagama DS division have been affected by the floods, with many homes submerged or isolated. The Divisional Secretariat has been providing essential supplies such as dry rations to those impacted.
