Colombo: Sri Lanka has received humanitarian aid from 22 foreign countries and the World Food Programme to help communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. To ensure effective management and distribution of these foreign relief supplies, the President has established the High-Level Committee for Foreign Relief Aid Coordination.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the Committee, led by Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), has been actively meeting to ensure transparency and efficiency in relief operations. All foreign aid entering through airports and seaports is securely stored at the Orugodawatta warehouse complex, with distribution facilitated by the National Disaster Relief Services Centre.

The sixth session of the Committee was recently held at the Disaster Management Centre, where media were briefed on the assistance received and the efforts of foreign relief teams. The aid includes food, medicines, technical equipment, and civil engineering resources. Special tents and shelters have been provided for temporary accommodation, along with essential household items and clothing.

The government is committed to swift distribution of aid, with reports made every three days to the Presidential Secretariat and the Prime Minister’s Office. The distribution process is streamlined through District Secretariats and supported by enhanced storage and security measures at the warehouse complex. A formal audit of the distribution process is planned.

Additionally, 389 specialists from seven countries have been assisting in relief operations, including search and rescue, medical assistance, and construction activities. They have utilized modern technologies for monitoring and mapping disaster areas and ensuring access to clean water. Some teams have completed their missions and left the country.

The Deputy Minister of Defence expressed gratitude to all foreign countries and the Sri Lankan expatriate community for their support.