UN response to recent floods in Sri Lanka

Inter-monsoon rains at the end of October caused floods, landslides and subsequent displacement. The rains resulted in the deaths of 25 persons and affected an estimated 333,000 persons according to figures released by the National Disaster Management Centre. Furthermore, 71 houses were completely damaged with partial damage to 358 houses. The United Nations is supporting the Government in its relief efforts

A brief summary of assistance is provided below highlighting capacity and resources should a further need arise.

In Kalutara, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is coordinating efforts with the Government Agent (GA) and is ready to assist with Water and Sanitation kits, Non-Food Relief Items (NFRIs) and shelter if required. IOM transported boats in the initial phase and provided earth moving equipment to clear the drainage systems and to re-route excess water into the sea.. IOM together with the Kalutara GA is coordinating ongoing assessments to determine damages to property.

UNICEF stands ready to immediately provide 6,000 sets of kitchen utensils, 3,000 sleeping mats, 200 water tanks, 10,000 bed sheets, 10,000 towels and 10,000 bars of soap. UNICEF, if needed, will procure septic tank cleaning equipment such as gully suckers, water pumps, wheel barrows, shovels and mammoties.

UNHCR is able to immediately provide 3,400 sets of kitchen utensils, 3,400 plastic mats, 3,400 bed sheets, 3,400 towels and 6,800 bars of soap. In addition UNHCR has in stock 5,000 mammoties.

Together with the UN, the Government of Sri Lanka is organizing assessments for the next stage which will concentrate on flood mitigation. Meanwhile, UNDP is committed to secure US$ 100,000 for mitigation of floods and liaises with the 24/7 unit of the government Disaster Management Center (DMC).

On 1st November, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights organized a meeting with stakeholders to prepare the assessment of worst affected areas and draw mitigation plans on floods. UN agencies will be part of the multi-sectoral teams that will be sent to the field on 8th November.

For press inquiries contact:
Orla Clinton - Spokesperson for Resident Co-ordinator on 077 320 7505

For flood response please contact:
Mr. Sisira Kumara of the DMC on 077 313 6112

202-204, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka
Tel: +94 1 580691-8 Fax: 94 (1) 581116