The death toll from devastating floods in Sri Lanka has risen to 150. The Disaster Management Centre also said in Colombo today that 112 persons are still unaccounted for.
The authorities have stepped up rescue operations and are rushing aid to nearly half a million people displaced by the worst torrential rains since 2003. Sri Lanka’s tri-forces personnel including more than 1,000 Army troops were engaged in the rescue and relief operations.
Sri Lanka has sought international assistance. India which was first country to respond, dispatched three Navy ships with emergency supplies to help Sri Lanka. The first Indian ship reached Colombo yesterday. A second Indian vessel – INS Shardul – arrived today, which was received by Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ravi Karunanayake. The third Indian ship is expected to arrive tomorrow.
The adverse weather conditions have caused flooding and landslides in 15 districts. A UN statement said the worst hit is the southern district of Galle. The Meteorological Department says although the heavy rainy condition has reduced temporarily, showery conditions are likely to enhance again over south-western part of the island nation from tomorrow. Sri Lanka’s fishing community have been alerted about the condition.